Steven A. Bush - October 30, 2016
God Disciplines Us For Our Good
Hebrews 12:5-6 says: "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. For the Lord disciplines the one He loves, and chastises every son whom He receives.” (ESV) Quoting from Proverbs 3, our unknown author affirms we are God's children by reminding us that God's discipline is rendered in love, is for our good, and will produce the peaceful fruit of righteousness. Most of us wish this could happen with a whole lot less trouble, pain, and woe. Hopefully our Lord's discipline will bring us to a place of repentance and brokenness before Him, a place where we are completely dependent on His mercy, grace, love, and forgiveness. If He allows us to fall into deep holes, it's so we realize our only way out is Him reaching down and pulling us out. And that's the essence of the Gospel. Every trial should therefore point us to the cross. After all, if He can save us from sin and death, the rest of life's difficulties are well within His wheelhouse. Let us therefore trust Him, be encouraged, and run our races with faith and persevere.