“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.'” Hebrews 12:5
March 1, 2024
Growing into mature adulthood is not easy. Physical growth usually takes care of itself. But for the Christian there is the matter of spiritual growth, becoming more mature in the faith. An important part of this process is the discipline of the Lord. We are talking about suffering. Some of which comes to us, not because we need a spanking, but because we are living for Christ. Persecution for the faith will come (Heb. 12:3,4). However, when there is disobedience in our lives, God loves us so much that He disciplines us. Remember those times when we were told not to do something, and we rebelled and did it anyway. A loving parent can’t look the other way and let it go unaddressed. Corrective discipline is necessary in God’s school of holiness. This doesn’t mean that all suffering is because we have sinned, but it does tell us that because God is holy, the purpose of our redemption is to live holy lives. Is there some grudge you are bearing? Are you venturing into immoral behavior? What about that lie we told and are covering it up? We are to repent and confess our sins. Sin is like cancer. It spreads and creates a multitude of harmful consequences.
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“Suffering so unbolts the door of the heart, that the Word hath easier entrance.” Richard Baxter (1615-1691).