Colossians 3:21

21 Parents, don't come down too hard on your children or you'll crush their spirits.

Colossians 3:21 Meaning and Commentary

Colossians 3:21

Fathers, provoke not your children to anger
(See Gill on Ephesians 6:4).

lest they be discouraged;
or disheartened and dispirited; their spirits be broke through grief and trouble, and they become indolent, sluggish, and unfit for business; or, despairing of having any share in the affections of their parents, disregard their commands, instructions, and corrections, and grow obdurate, stubborn, and rebellious.

Colossians 3:21 In-Context

19 Husbands, go all out in love for your wives. Don't take advantage of them.
20 Children, do what your parents tell you. This delights the Master no end.
21 Parents, don't come down too hard on your children or you'll crush their spirits.
22 Servants, do what you're told by your earthly masters. And don't just do the minimum that will get you by. Do your best.
23 Work from the heart for your real Master, for God,
Published by permission. Originally published by NavPress in English as THE MESSAGE: The Bible in Contemporary Language copyright 2002 by Eugene Peterson. All rights reserved.