Discipline of a Loving Father
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? 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. (Heb. 12:9-10)
Obedience to God’s standards is not a condition of his love for us, though it does affect our daily experience of his joy and peace. If we walk off his path of spiritual safety, we shouldn’t be surprised that there are consequences. Those consequences are actually an indication of his love rather than the absence of it.
If God didn’t love us, he would simply let us wander off and face even greater harm. In discipline, the divine hand is simply turning us back to the path designed by hands that will hold us eternally.
So, remember that even when we are in the throes of the harshest correction, God is showing his grace towards us and turning us toward a great love that would shield us from the greater dangers and consequences of our sin!
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I know that you discipline me not out of arbitrary anger but rather out of love that only intends good and never damage to my soul. Help me today not to mistake a severe mercy for a capricious hand, and to grow in my desire and ability to follow your loving will.
Bryan Chapell, By Faith
