The LORD’s discipline

Do not despise the LORD’s instruction, my son, and do not loathe His discipline; for the LORD disciplines the one He loves, just as a father, the son he delights in. 1 We had natural fathers discipline us, and we respected them. Shouldn’t we submit even more to the Father of spirits and live? For they disciplined us for a short time based on what seemed good to them, but He does it for our benefit, so that we can share His holiness. 2

When we are judged, we are disciplined by the Lord, so that we may not be condemned with the world. 3 God certainly does all these things to a man in order to turn him back from the Pit, so he may shine with the light of life. 4

Should we accept only good from God and not adversity? 5 No discipline seems enjoyable at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it yields the fruit of peace and righteousness to those who have been trained by it. 6

We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God. 7 See how happy the man is God corrects; so do not reject the discipline of the Almighty. For He crushes but also binds up; He strikes, but His hands also heal. 8 Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, so that He may exalt you at the proper time. 9

 

1 Prov 3.11-12 2 Heb 12.9-10 3 1Cor 11.32 4 Job 33.29-30 5 Job 2.10 6 Heb 12.11 7 Rom 8.28 8 Job 5.17-18 9 1Pt 5.6