Discipline

Hebrews 12:9-10  Besides this, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us and we respected them. Shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits and live? 10 For they disciplined us for a short time as it seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness.

As a parent it pains me when I see my words of discipline move my boys to tears. They are both strong willed like their parents, and many times it takes a strong tone to grab their attention to understanding they are wrong. “Yelling” might be the best term that it elevates to sometimes. Typically I am the one who feels the worst, and an apology and explanation of the discipline are given. That is where the true lessons are learned. I thank God for the early work He did in me on my temper from early in my walk with Him. I would not have wanted to carry that rage the world brings, as a dad, without the peace as a child of God I have now.

We all have heard, and most likely have all felt like God was punishing us at times. We may have known exactly what it was for, as it came on the heels of sin. We may wonder why we are enduring extended correction, and we may have lost what He pressed on us was wrong earlier. Was the sin so deeply hidden, that denial has taken place? Was the sin of the past ever confessed? Was there a plea and acceptance of forgiveness? If God keeps stirring in your heart that sin, take it before God. That conviction of sin is an assurance of Salvation. That inner pain that you feel is a discipline of itself. 8 If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. If you can knowingly sin and not feel the weight of that sin press down on you; you have a much bigger problem of eternal consequence at hand.

We all sin. We all were born into sin as a result of Adam and Eve’s sin in the Garden of Eden. Yes, you ultimately lie in their genealogy, and as their descendants live in the consequence of their action. God will punish you for your sin as your father for your time here. 5 And have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons? “My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor be weary when reproved by him. 6 For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.” All these corrections are to mold us into the image of His Son, and to draw us near to Him. Just as we discipline our children to show them the err of their ways; and to help them avoid the pain in the future. If you question God’s discipline, go before Him in prayer for clarity, confession, and forgiveness of your sin He brings before you.