SCRIPTURE:
“Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but 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.”
Hebrews 12:9-11
OBSERVATION:
Our earthly fathers did their best to discipline us. God disciplines us that we may walk out His best in our lives. Whether from God or our Dads, discipline is oftentimes uncomfortable and unpleasant. While we may not have understood it at the time, if we are able to learn from it we can produce tremendous fruit in our lives.
APPLICATION:
One of my Dad’s favorite words to me growing up seemed to be “No.” I’d ask to hang out with some friends on a school night or to go to a party and he would say “No.” He would often explain his reasons for it, citing some of the friends that I had. At the time I thought he was being unreasonable, but looking back on it today I can understand why.
In the same way, there have been prayers that God has not answered. There are situations that He allowed me to go through that were extremely difficult and disciplinary, but looking back on them now, I can understand fully what He was doing. He was training me on purpose, for a purpose.
When we understand that the things that The Lord has us go through is for a reason, it helps us to change our perspective. We put on our Kingdom Glasses instead of our Earthly Lenses. God has us right where He wants us to be. I just need to remember that everything He does is for His Kingdom Purposes and for my good.
PRAYER:
Father Almighty. Forgive me Lord for times when I have argued and grown disappointed, because I felt like You were holding me back from what I wanted to do. Thank You Lord for your continued grace and mercy on my life. May I always remember that what You do is for my very best, this I pray, in Jesus’ name, Amen.
