"No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it." Hebrews 12:11 NIV
Discipline! It's a word that makes most of us cringe. For me, it recalls memories of being introduced to the wooden paddle in the vice principal's office. I don't recall the offense, but I remember the paddling. (Yes, children at one time spanking were dispensed in school.) Whatever my wrongdoing, I'm pretty confident I modified my behavior.
Discipline, even if it isn't harsh, is never pleasant. In it, we face the realization we are wrong. Something painful for us to admit. We become challenged and sometimes, okay often, defensive, "What do you mean that I'm wrong." Once we can move beyond our hurt and anger, we hopefully come to acknowledge the truthfulness behind the rebuke and appreciate it is coming from a place of love. We are being disciplined not because the person wants to inflict pain -- they are not abusive -- but care enough to help us.
Earlier in Hebrews, it says, "If you are not disciplined—and everyone undergoes discipline—then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all." (Heb 12:8) God's discipline proves our legitimacy as His children! Because he is our loving Father, we require discipline at times, like with our earthly parents.
Heavenly Father, we are grateful for your caring and love. We confess, we often rankle under discipline. Please help us see it not as punishment but as learning, and from it, we acquire righteousness and peace. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
