The Blessing of Chastening # 159

Hebrews 12:11

Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.

Brethren, there is a natural hardness within the hearts of men easily noticed by the level of arrogance in our lives. We were born in this world with a self-centered attitude expecting everything to rotate around us. This attitude of entitlement keeps the people from seeking God with expectation. A proud heart is a stench that repels the presence of God.

Evaluate and judge for yourselves. O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee. Every day, many believers rise in the covering of the Lord and ignore His faithfulness throughout the day. From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same, the Lord's name is to be praised. Yet, they wander in their strength without seeking the Lord, praying, having devotion, or meditating on His Word. They do not partake of His daily bread because there is no time. The Lord prepares a table before us with all our needs but it is usually neglected by the arrogant. These are a few pieces of evidence expected from the unconverted sinners. However, when it comes from the believer, a proud heart that stinks in the sight of God desperately needs to be humbled.

His love is taught, unconditional, and often misunderstood by the unlearned. Demonstrated by the work of the cross, the love of God is displayed for everyone to see. For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. We are taught discipline through chastisement, but if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons. Rejoice, the Lord knows those that are His, and because He loves us, we will not go undisciplined.

The chastisement of God is not used for punishment but rather for correction and guidance. It is momentary, intending to direct our steps to accomplish His purposes in our lives. I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go. Hardship, crisis, and struggles are a few instruments God uses to create humility in our hearts. His chastisement is the cure for man’s arrogant heart

Brethren, embrace the chastisement ordained by God designed to draw you closer to Himself. The intention of His discipline is to keep our hearts humble before His presence. This is the love of God that is often misunderstood by the unlearned. Therefore, remember, In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

Ps 63:1, Ps 113:3, Heb 12:6, Heb 12:8, Ps 32:8, 1The 5:18

KJV