Psalm 105:37-45; Judges 20:32-21:25; Luke 22:63-71
In the path of your judgments, O Lord, we wait for you. Isaiah 26:8
When we are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined so that we may not be condemned along with the world. 1 Corinthians 11:32
Now, as a parent, I discipline my children out love and the desire to see the best for them. I see the bigger picture of their lives even as they see only now and what they desire. This has also helped me understand God's posture towards us.
Oh, my children... Gabriel, nearing 5, often voices his protest in a flurry whining and logical arguments for the injustice of my actions which, can be quite convincing and unsettling as I see the near future when he will be able to out-debate me like his mother. Neriyah on the other hand, more like myself in this manner, will turn inward. Her bottom lip will swell until double its normal size and her eyes will focus an intense beam of disappointment at either the ground or my face. Then using her supper-powered eyebrow furrow she will try to crush my resolve of correction with her extreme cuteness. Both Gabriel and Neriyah are a unique combination of traits I see in Michelle and I, sometimes coming together for the better while at other times, not so much.
How are you with God and his loving hand of discipline? The scripture is clear that God disciplines those he loves (Pr 3:11-12; Heb 12:6). This means that there are times that all of us will need a little pruning (Jn 15:2). Even as I am a sinful and selfish father, my love for my children wants the best for them. How much more is the love and care of our perfect and heavenly father? No matter how we whine, cry, or "stare down" God's discipline it is a tool for our good. Today, may you be blessed with the courage to embrace God in encouragement and in discipline.
Daily Prayer:
When you see fit to judge us, God, help us to remember your love and grace. Call to our minds the redemptive purposes of your discipline and the promise of eternal life. Thank you for training us so we shall forever be your children. Amen.
