Discipline is Proof of God’s Love
February 28, 2024
Commentary
At times God must discipline us to help us. This is similar to a loving parent disciplining his child. The disciplining is not very enjoyable to the child, but it is essential to teach him right from wrong. The Bible says that “no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, put painful, nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it” (Heb. 12:11). When you feel God’s hand of discipline, accept it as proof of His love. Realize that God is urging you to follow His paths instead of stubbornly going your own way. The psalmist speaks to the righteous about God (vv. 12-15).God allows the wicked to prosper in order to chasten the righteous (vv. 12-13).God will never abandon his people, nor will He forsake his inheritance (v. 14).There will come a day when righteousness will reign (v. 15).The psalmist speaks to himself about God (vv. 16-23).He confesses that he too is unable to stand apart from divine enablement (vv. 16-18).He ponders these things in order to find comfort when evil men prevail (vv. 19-21).He knows that he is right in leaving the fate of the wicked with God (vv. 22-23).“In the multitude of my anxieties within me, your comforts delight my soul” (v. 19). God wants to calm our anxieties even before they happen.
Application
I need to commit the destiny and destruction of the wicked to God. I need to commit myself to His disciplining hand as it fulfils His purposes in my life.
Psalms 94:12– 23 (NET)
Verses not found.
Illustration: Discipline In Schools-Past and Present
In the fifties the major discipline problems in our public schools were cigarette smoking, skipping class, running in the halls, spit balls, chewing gum, and whispering in class. Today – the major problems are deadly weapons – kids carrying guns, knifes, and even assault weapons. This is followed by arson, drugs, vandalism, and drunkenness. Recently in Florida a high school teacher observed a number of boys in the corner of the gymnasium on their hands and knees. Rushing up to the boys, the teacher demanded, “ What are you doing?” One of the boys looked up and answered, “ We’re shooting dice!” The teacher responded with, “ Oh, thank goodness. I thought you were praying.” (Source Unknown, Lou Nicholes – Missionary/Author).