Saturday 9 October, 2021

4 In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. 5 And have you completely forgotten this word of encouragement that addresses you as a father addresses his son? It says, “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 the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.” 7 Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father?

Anything worth doing is going to be difficult. I love the idea of discipline and how it shapes us: making us stronger and better. We know that a lack of discipline may cause sloppiness, laziness, and even failure. When our motivation stumbles, discipline keeps us going. It is the practice, training, behaviour, direction, and instruction that help us succeed. When Christ calls us to be his disciples, it is His discipline we are devoted to. It is ultimately for our good!

Now we barely live for a century, and in comparison to the eternity that awaits us, that puts this life into perspective very quickly. What are one hundred years compared to the infinite depths of eternity? So how are we to respond to a passage like this? Those that do not hold to a biblical worldview may think this life is all we have. But we take hope in something more! As disciples of Christ, we know our behaviour and heart reflect Jesus! However, and more often than not, that is easier said than done. We need to not lose heart and endure hardship, a message that is echoed many, many times in the New Testament.

Lord, thank you for your wise and divine discipline on us. Help us to become like you Christ. Forgive us when we forget to be humble, leaning on our own strength and understanding. Thank you that you do not send trials that we cannot endure. Help us to accept your discipline, to not lose heart and to endure hardship. May Your will always be done. In your precious name, Jesus.
Amen

Written by Sven Bessesen