“They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness.” - Hebrews 12:10
I can remember times when our children were young when we had to steer them away from disaster. Our first house (parsonage) was on a busy 4 lane road with dangerous traffic; and when they played in the yard or rode their bikes, we had to give them strict instructions of where they needed to stop. Most of the time, they listened well and paid attention; but sometimes, they did not.
In those moments, we sprung into action to save them from harm. In the moments following, there were things that were said, assurances made, and punishments administered. Perhaps there were even times when what I said sounded severe, even if I was not angry or vindictive. In the end, the prayer is that our children would understand that we were just trying to protect them, and they would grow into wise young men and women.
It is hard to be disciplined, even when we know we deserve it. Discipline is embarrassing and humiliating. None of us like to admit wrong—even when we know we are. But discipline is intended to make us better people. Parents discipline children; employers exert discipline on employees; coaches require discipline to win; and God demands discipline to shape people into his disciples.
Our verse for today says, “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.” It is not fun to be set in the corner, sent to the principal’s office, put in jail, reprimanded by a superior at work, scolded by the coach, or, most of all, chastised by God.
The Bible is right: discipline is painful. But, thanks be to God, discipline also brings righteousness and peace. It makes us seek the Savior, Jesus. May we seek that Savior as we gather together for worship this week.
Grace & Peace,
Pastor Aaron
I can remember times when our children were young when we had to steer them away from disaster. Our first house (parsonage) was on a busy 4 lane road with dangerous traffic; and when they played in the yard or rode their bikes, we had to give them strict instructions of where they needed to stop. Most of the time, they listened well and paid attention; but sometimes, they did not.
In those moments, we sprung into action to save them from harm. In the moments following, there were things that were said, assurances made, and punishments administered. Perhaps there were even times when what I said sounded severe, even if I was not angry or vindictive. In the end, the prayer is that our children would understand that we were just trying to protect them, and they would grow into wise young men and women.
It is hard to be disciplined, even when we know we deserve it. Discipline is embarrassing and humiliating. None of us like to admit wrong—even when we know we are. But discipline is intended to make us better people. Parents discipline children; employers exert discipline on employees; coaches require discipline to win; and God demands discipline to shape people into his disciples.
Our verse for today says, “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.” It is not fun to be set in the corner, sent to the principal’s office, put in jail, reprimanded by a superior at work, scolded by the coach, or, most of all, chastised by God.
The Bible is right: discipline is painful. But, thanks be to God, discipline also brings righteousness and peace. It makes us seek the Savior, Jesus. May we seek that Savior as we gather together for worship this week.
Grace & Peace,
Pastor Aaron
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