Embracing the Refining Fire of God’s Discipline
When hardship knocks on our door, we’re faced with a crucial decision: will we succumb to the suffering or rise above it? Suffering can seem unjust and unfair, but what if it serves a higher purpose? What if it’s an opportunity for spiritual growth, a chance to reorient our perspective and deepen our trust in God?
God’s Unconventional View of Discipline
As adults, we often struggle to accept discipline, thinking it’s something only children need. But God sees things differently. He views all believers as His children, regardless of age, and therefore, He disciplines us out of love. If we weren’t His children, He wouldn’t bother to correct us. We’re prone to wander off the right path, whether due to ignorance, self-deception, or external influences. Sometimes, we intentionally choose the wrong route. In every instance, God desires to protect and instruct us through the discipline of endurance.
Lessons from Peter’s Denial
Take Peter’s denial of Christ, for example. In the heat of the moment, Peter chose to survive by denying Jesus. But when the rooster crowed, he realized his mistake. The time between that crowing and Jesus’ reinstatement of Peter as a leader was a period of reflection and growth for Peter. This story teaches us that discipline can be a catalyst for maturity.
The Difficulty of Receiving Discipline
Receiving discipline is tough, especially when we believe we’re in the right. It’s essential to take a step back, listen to the “crow of the rooster,” and acknowledge our broken humanity. When we do, we become stronger as children of God.
A Prayer for Guidance
Lord, help me move beyond my own biases and understanding so I may comprehend Your ways. I don’t want to justify my actions or sulk in self-pity. I want to learn and grow. Love and teach me as my heavenly Father today and for the rest of my life. Amen.
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