3 A whip for the horse, A bridle for the donkey, And a rod for the fool's back.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Proverbs 26:3

Commentary on Proverbs 26:3

(Read Proverbs 26:3)

Every creature must be dealt with according to its nature, but careless and profligate sinners never will be ruled by reason and persuasion. Man indeed is born like the wild ass's colt; but some, by the grace of God, are changed.