If you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten? — Hebrews 12:7 (NKJV)
Click Here to Read Today’s Scripture: Hebrews 12:1-12
My dad was a humble and calm man. My mom was the disciplinarian. But one day, I disrespected my dad, and he swatted me. I don't think the hit hurt as much as the fact that it was Dad who did it—the man who was always patient with me, who always pampered me.
Even as a child, I realized that Dad physically punished me not because he didn't love me but because he expected the best from me. And he wanted the best for me.
Likewise, God disciplines us out of love. I like the way the author of Hebrews explains it: “If you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten? But if you are without chastening, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate and not sons. Furthermore, we have had human fathers who corrected us, and we paid them respect. Shall we not much more readily be in subjection to the Father of spirits and live?” (12:7-9).
My earthly father felt obligated to discipline me when I stepped out of line. How much more does our heavenly Father have the right to do so? Although He has given us certain freedoms, He keeps us in check. His discipline is for our spiritual wellbeing.
Even though I knew I was wrong, I felt a certain resentment toward my dad for hitting me. However, that feeling did not last long. Because he had shown his love in so many other ways, I realized that whatever he did was out of love and for my gain. Indeed, “No chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it" (v. 11).
Whenever we are disciplined by God, let’s remember that it is for our benefit, out of the great love He has for us.
Reflection: When was the last time God disciplined you in love? How did it help your spiritual growth?
Prayer Starter:
Lord, when I’m wrong, correct me with love. Continue to guide me on the right path.
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