Outward behavior reinforces the inward state. If you want your inward state to be purer and more righteous, then conform your outward behavior to the ideal that you desire to be in your heart. Feed the wolf, as they say, which you desire to be victorious.
Our flesh naturally inclines to entropy, so wicked behavior is easily amplified and overtakes a well-meaning heart. Righteousness leads to greater sanctification (being set apart from the world), but it is a more difficult task. God’s Spirit, prayer, righteous company, and studying the Scriptures will all help you, but even these things require concerted effort. Forward motion takes work, while backwards motion takes no effort at all. Merely stand still, and your morals will begin to fail you.
Romans 6:19
Do not withhold correction from a child. If you strike him with a rod, he will not die. Punish him with a rod, and deliver his soul from Sheol.
Proverbs 23:13-14 TLV
The purpose of all discipline is to spare the child greater pain later. If you withhold discipline because it makes you feel bad to see your children in pain, you are actually being selfish and hateful toward your children.
This week's #torah reading is called Ki Tetzei (#deuteronomy 21:10-25:19), which means "when you go out". Here's a list of Apostolic passages to study alongside Parsha #kitetzei, with links to related commentary and videos: https://www.americantorah.com/....2021/03/23/parsha-ki
On this date in history, 09/08/1847: Battle of Molino Del Rey, Mexico. #otd #tdih #mexicanamericanwar