The Beauty of Discipline

I sat in my bedroom fuming with frustration. My little 5-year-old heart was angry and hurting. My father had decided to journey out and even though I desperately wanted to go, he had told me no. From the large picture window in my room, I could see straight out into the front yard where my father was getting into his car. Before I could stop myself, though I am not sure I would have, I glared at him angrily and stuck my tongue out with great passion. My father looked at me (you know the look), shut the car door, and made his way back into the house, bee-lining for MY room.

Many of us think of the Father’s discipline as a harsh and unloving act. God is out to get us or make us pay for our transgressions. Actually, Jesus already paid that price. God does however make a point to correct us. The author of Hebrews reminds us that “God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness. 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.” (Heb. 12:10b-11)

Today may your loving Father remind you of the beauty of his discipline. May it lead you to holiness, righteousness, and peace.