Hebrews 12:6
“For whom the LORD loves He chastens, and scourges every son whom He receives.”Content is the child who understands this verse. Every caring parent wants their child to mature at a steady pace, and they are constantly training, redirecting, and employing discipline when needed. In the same way that loving discipline is required for children to grow up responsible, the LORD gently corrects those who are His, because even the most committed saint will err. But if God’s Word is not heeded, He will use stronger means.
Discipline and chastisement are heaven-sent tokens of the Father’s vigilant and unchanging love for His children, and yes, it hurts. It injures our pride and disrupts our disobedience. It turns our self-sufficiency and self-righteousness upside down. Yet the sting of God’s chastening always arrives with an upward motion, moving us closer toward His heart and will for our life.
Discipline is always right when God’s love drives the rod of correction. But its effectiveness depends on how you receive it. Self-pity, resentment, and rebellion come easily if you do not believe your heavenly Father has your best interests in mind. It is in those times that you must hang onto the exhortation, “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) The Father’s attentiveness to your spiritual growth proves how near and dear you are to His heart.
Whenever you find yourself under the LORD’s rod of correction, rejoice! Embrace every bit of it and wait for the good that will surely follow.
Awaiting His Return,
– Pastor Jack
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