As a kid, you might have related discipline with “punishment” - but the discipline I’m talking about is more of a “training” than a “consequence”.
Either way…it often isn’t fun…but is never-the-less necessary
I was encouraged by this passage in Hebrews 12, that we somewhat unraveled in Chapel today:
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. 2 Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
4 In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. 5 And you have forgotten that word of encouragement that addresses you as sons:
“My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline,
and do not lose heart when he rebukes you,
6 because the Lord disciplines those he loves,
and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son.”a
7 Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father? 8 If you are not disciplined (and everyone undergoes discipline), then you are illegitimate children and not true sons. 9 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 our spirits and live! 10 Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. 11 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.
12 Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. 13 “Make level paths for your feet,”b so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed.
a Prov. 3:11,12
b Prov. 4:26
The Holy Bible : New International Version. 1996, c1984 . Zondervan: Grand Rapids
I whine about being disciplined sometimes…because I’m weak, or impatient…or stupid. But I always rejoice in the results…how both are possible, I don’t know. But I know i’m learning to find discipline a thing to be desired, not dreaded…
February 21st, 2007 at 7:53 am
Good things to think about. this is an excellent message. i’m reminded of romans chapter 5 when i read this.
February 21st, 2007 at 7:54 am
It’s so nice to take joy in being disciplined in training rather than consequence– even though the pain if it may seem to be the same. Discomfort is definately a hard thing to strive for but nonetheless necessary. Thanks for the encouragement!