ByEnduring God’s chastening as His child is a profound and essential aspect of the Christian journey. In Hebrews 12:5-6, the scripture reminds us of the loving yet firm discipline that God, our Heavenly Father, extends to His children. Just as our earthly parents corrected us in our youth, and they’re still doing it, sometimes with correct measures, so does God correct His children. This correction is not out of anger or a desire to harm but out of love, aiming to guide us back onto the right path.
In our lives, there have been moments when we’ve felt the sting of parental discipline. Tears flowed, and pain was felt, but it was for our growth and well-being. Similarly, God’s chastening is designed to refine us, shaping us into His image and leading us toward spiritual maturity. Unlike human parents, whose authority may reduce as we grow older, God’s authority remains ever-present, guiding us regardless of our age or status.
Parents discipline their children
Reflecting on my childhood, I recall certain instances when my parents’ discipline felt harsh and painful. One particular memory stands out: I had disobeyed my parents by playing outside late into the evening, despite their clear instructions to return home before dark. As a result, I was whipped and was warned not to go out again, unable to join my friends for any outdoor activities. At the time, it felt like the end of the world, unfair and overly strict. Yet, looking back now, I realise that my parents’ discipline was not out of spite but out of concern for my safety and well-being.
This experience serves as a reminder of the nature of God’s discipline. Just as our parents disciplined us to correct our behaviour and keep us safe, so does God, our Heavenly Father, correct us to guide us back to Him. Proverbs 22:15 emphasises that “Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far away.” No loving parent chastises their child to drive them away, but rather to bring them back onto the right path. Similarly, God’s chastisement is not meant to condemn us but to lead us to repentance and restoration. As His children, we must recognise His authority over us and submit to His loving correction, trusting that it is for our ultimate good.
You are a legitimate child of God
The relationship between a child and their biological parent is often different from that between a child and a stepparent. Many stepparents find it difficult to discipline their stepchildren because they aren’t their biological offspring. There’s often a fear of overstepping boundaries or causing emotional harm. Likewise, it can be challenging to correct someone else’s child because there’s a lack of that deep-rooted connection and authority that comes naturally with parenthood.
However, as believers, we are not spiritual stepchildren; we are legitimate children of God, born of His Spirit. John 1:12-13 declares,
“Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God -children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.”
Because we are His legitimate children, God has every right to discipline us as He sees fit. His correction is a confirmation of our status as His children, ensuring that we grow in righteousness and holiness. God’s chastisement is a clear indication that we belong to Him, and as such, He takes an active role in shaping our character and guiding our steps.
As believers, we are not spiritual stepchildren; we are legitimate children of God, born of His Spirit.
Obey God
Discipline often comes when we stray from the path of righteousness. God, in His infinite wisdom, knows that unchecked disobedience leads to destruction, both spiritually and physically. Therefore, He disciplines us to bring us back into alignment with His will. As believers, we are called to live in obedience to God, not just in public but also in secrecy, where our true character is revealed.
The Bible warns against living a double life—one that appears righteous outwardly but is deformed by hidden sins. God’s discipline is a reminder that He sees all things, and His desire is for us to live upright lives in every aspect. Hebrews 12:11 states,
“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.”
Our obedience to God should not be out of fear of punishment but out of love for Him and a desire to honour His commands. By living right before God, we can avoid the need for corrective discipline and instead walk in the fullness of His blessings.
In conclusion, enduring God’s chastening as His child is a crucial aspect of our spiritual journey. It reflects His deep love and commitment to our growth and maturity as believers. Just as our earthly parents disciplined us for our good, so does God correct us to guide us back onto the path of righteousness. As legitimate children of God, we should embrace His discipline, knowing it is a sign of His love and care. Let us strive to live in obedience to Him, both in public and in private, allowing His discipline to produce in us a harvest of righteousness and peace.
