A 14-year-old national-level skater took his smartphone to school. He recorded some videos and uploaded them to social media. When the school administration came to know this, he and his parents were summoned by the principal of the school. He went to the principal’s office, knowing his guilt, and uttered: ‘Sorry…sorry…’ 52 times in 4 minutes. Out of fear, he ran outside the office and jumped from the roof. Hospitalised in critical condition. (NDTV 30 November 2025)
Discipline: Though he had self-discipline to excel in sports, he did not have discipline to obey the rules of institutions and other authorities. Physical discipline was, for him, easier than institutional discipline. For most humans, discipline is difficult and should be resisted and rejected. The sinful nature inclines a person towards indiscipline and going astray. (Romans 3:23; Isaiah 53:6)
Fear of God: To overcome indiscipline, sin, evil, waywardness, and wickedness, there is a need for the Fear of God. For wisdom and discernment to eschew evil, the fear of God is essential. (Proverbs 9:10; Job 28:28) Fear of God is based on the fact that God is the creator, sovereign ruler, holy, gives laws for human benefit, makes humans accountable, and punishes the wicked.
Fear of consequences: Some people are restrained when they realise the consequences of their actions would be painful. Fear of an accident could restrain a driver from speeding. Sadly, teenagers do not know or bother to know about the consequences. Naively, some think they will never be caught. Some know about the consequences but think of ways and means to avoid such consequences. Using money, power or influence of parents, they could escape consequences.
Fear of the unknown: This boy ran and fell because he was not sure what kind of punishment the school would give. Also, he could have been afraid of his father, maybe a strict disciplinarian.
Repentance and confession: Though he repented his misadventure and confessed, he did not get any response. However, God hears a repented sinner’s genuine plea and grants forgiveness.
Do I fear God and be a disciplined disciple of the Lord?