Correction must regularly begin at the first sign of disobedience. When we speak once in normal tones, we should expect obedience. If we do not get it, then we move in immediately to correct the disobedience. There are no empty threats, no increasing degrees of anger, no rising crescendo of shouting, just the calm, kind, loving, but firm insistence that we be obeyed when we speak. The rod will then become associated not with retaliation but with love, the loving concern that our children learn the joy and blessing of a disciplined spirit.
Consistency requires more self-discipline on our part than anything else.
Raising our voices is easier than getting up, walking over, and administering firm but loving correction at the first sign of disobedience. But God will help us if we let him. Self-control involves the ability to do the right thing at the right time. And the right time for correction is at the moment of disobedience. When we allow the Spirit of God to deal with our problem of laziness, we shall be able to discipline our children his way.