Do You Appreciate The Chastening Of The Lord?

Every Christian is in need of discipline from God. You will be chastened by God in the way necessary to mold you into the person God wants you to be. Some will be chastened mildly, others a little more earnestly, and some even very sternly. Do not view God's discipline as punishment for something you may have done, but see it as God intends. He disciplines you for your future good! Accept the discipline God brings in your life and let Him mold you into His will.

As God accomplishes His purpose in your life through discipline, there are three principles you must understand, (1) the human view of Godly discipline, (2) the heavenly view of Godly discipline, and (3) the holy objective of Godly discipline. Humanly, do not despise and resent His chastening or become tired of His constant care in your life. Though His chastening may be stern at times, His grace is always sufficient empowering you to serve even in the midst of purposed affliction (2 Corinthians 12:9-10). Try to view trials as God does in heaven! Discipline is not a sign God is upset with you but evidence that He loves you. His objective as He disciplines is holiness and righteous living!

Hebrews 12:6-11 is a companion Scripture with our text and declares this truth. Hebrews 12:10-11 declares God's discipline will profit you with God's holiness and exercise you into peaceful, righteous living. How will you respond to His constant care for you? Will you despise and reject Him and His discpline, or will you allow Him to transform you into the same image of His only perfect Son, Jesus Christ?

By Tim Daniel