IT HURTS LORD, BUT I KNOW YOU LOVE ME

Scripture:  Heb. 12: 7 “ If you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten?”

Daniel responded right to authority, thereby, having God’s favor upon his life. When we do things according to our own desires and will, we make trouble for ourselves. Therefore, we should maintain close fellowship with the Lord and ask for wisdom in our circumstances. As the Lord, in His humanity was obedient to God the Father, how much more should we be obedient to the Lord because of His great forgiveness.

Hebrews 12:9 says “Furthermore, we have had human fathers who corrected us, and we paid them respect. Shall we not much more readily be in subjection to the Father of spirits and live?” When our parents chastened us, it helped us to grow. It did not always feel good, but when done in love and wisdom we learned some things. Respect for God equals submission to His will, and those who willingly receive the Lord’s chastening will have a richer, more abundant life.

Chastisement must be accepted with the right spirit for the right result. It is not a matter of accepting a minor chastisement with grace, but seeing chastisement as a “habit of life.” When that’s present, then “the peaceable fruit of righteousness follows.” Spiritual growth seems to be connected with action after pain. Spiritually mature people keep moving in spite of the pain of chastisement. They may sin and hurt God’s heart, but they don’t quit.

Prayer:  Father, thank You for pursuing me through Your loving chastisement. Yes, it hurts Lord, but I know that You love me and will always do what’s best.

(by Cheryl Torain)