Walk-on Wednesday - Loving God’s Discipline - Martin Wiles

Welcome to Walk-on Wednesday. By Hump Day, we are struggling, but we believe a good devotion can strengthen us to finish the week strong. 

As you endure this divine discipline, remember that God is treating you as his own children. Who ever heard of a child who is never disciplined by its father? Hebrews 12:7 NLT

No child loves it, and I sure didn’t either.

My parents believed the adage “Spare the rod and spoil the child.” I was never abused, but I was introduced to various measures of discipline. Dad’s black belt was reserved for those times when I was hatefully rebellious—not for little minor mistakes. Often, however, the discipline was taking something away: television privileges, going outside, a favorite toy, my bicycle, my skateboard. My take-aways may seem unimportant, but they worked just the same. What Mom and Dad took away for a certain period depended on what age I was. And the discipline worked. It got my attention and headed me in a different direction—at least for a time.

First-century Christians had many things to draw them away from God. They faced persecution from foreigners and from relatives who didn’t believe in Jesus and who wanted them to return to the Jewish customs. Idol worship was also rife. When they gave in to any of these things, God sent discipline.

God disciplines me for the same reason my parents did. I’ve gotten off track in some area. The discipline will re-orient me if I don’t ignore it, which God cautions me against doing. God’s discipline has a purpose. It’s not a random act of cruelty. His discipline is not designed to discourage me but to encourage me.

As painful as it might be, God’s discipline reminds me I’m his child. My parents didn’t discipline other parents’ children—unless they had permission. They were only concerned about me because I belonged to them, because my behavior reflected on them, and because they had a mandate from God to do so.

God wants holiness from me. And while I’m that in position through Jesus Christ, I’m not in practice. I often need a little stern yet loving guidance.

How do you respond when God disciplines you?

Prayer: Father, may we endure Your discipline joyfully, knowing You have our best interests at heart. 

Tweetable: How do you respond to God's discipline? 

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