Who Likes Discipline?
“We do not enjoy being disciplined. It is painful at the time, but later, after we have learned from it, we have peace, because we start living in the right way.” – Hebrews 12:11
We have to admit that discipline is not fun. It does not feel good when we are disciplined for doing something wrong. When I was young my parents disciplined me by not allowing me to play outside until my chores were done. I also got my toys taken away from me when I did something my parents told me not to do. It was not fun because I loved to play outside with my friends and to play with my favorite toys. Looking back now I know my parents did these things out of love for me so I would not become a brat and to help me to respect other people.
Kids can learn a lot from their parent’s discipline like me. However, we can also learn from God’s discipline. God as creator of discipline has been doing it from the beginning of time. He banished Adam and Eve from the Garden when they sinned as a punishment (Genesis 3:23). He does it to people who He loves and considers His children. Proverbs 3:11-12 shows why God’s discipline matters:
“My child do not reject the Lord’s discipline, and don’t get angry when he corrects you. The Lord corrects those he loves, just as parents correct the child they delight in.”
God has to discipline because He is holy and righteous, therefore, He cannot allow people to get away with sin. However, when someone is disciplined for any wrongdoing then it could lead them to repentance. Repentance leads to salvation, and they cannot be sorry for that (2 Corinthians 7:10). Even though some may view discipline as mean or unnecessary, it is proof of God’s love. He does it so His people can become holy as Him, even if it is not fun or joyful and painful during it (Hebrews 12:10). But later, after we have learned from it, we have peace, and start living in a way that pleases God (Hebrews 12:11).
Prayer of the day:
Dear heavenly Father,
You are a loving Father who disciplines. Your discipline is good because it shows that You care what we do. Also, it is a form of correction that we need to help us grow in righteousness. Thank you for Your love and care. Now our trials can be viewed in a more positive way. You can use our trials as a way to discipline us, to keep us holy, and humble. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen!
