Discipline

Just got back from having lunch with some friends, something I think I really needed. Opportunities for fellowship are hard to come by during the week. It's a very good reminder that I need to not forsake the brethren (Hebrews 10:25), as we are called to care for and pray for one another.

...

I was on Facebook a little while ago and I saw that a friend had posted Proverbs 3:11-12: "My son, do not despise the Lord's discipline or be weary of His reproof, for the Lord reproves him whom He loves, as a father the son in whom he delights."

That verse stuck in me like a knife. It also connects directly to something I've been dealing with in my walk with the Lord this past week.

This week, I had a realization, a moment of clarity that I've been praying for. For a long while, I've been struggling with the idea of finding joy in trials. This is an issue with which I've greatly struggled inasmuch as I haven't really understood how to have joy in the midst of such difficulties. I read an article on Facebook that talked about how we as believers can be confident in the love of God in the midst of trials. The point that stuck out most to me was that Jesus Himself suffered, so also must His own. if we are suffering for His sake, then we are His.

Also, going back to my original point, if (or rather, since) God loves me, He will correct me as He conforms me to the image of His Son (Romans 8:29). Sometimes, it will be very uncomfortable, as that involves dealing with sin. Lately, it seems like a lot of old bitterness is raising out of me, as well as old anger at Gold ans at others. It has often been very wearying, emotionally and physically.

I needed the scriptural reminder that God loves me and is doing His good work in me, and though it may be uncomfortable at times, it is for my good and for His glory.

Lord, forgive me for despising Your discipline.