This isn’t always an easy truth to accept, but God shows His love for you by disciplining you. It doesn’t feel much like love at the time, but it’s true. Now, I’m not talking about a heartless punishment, but discipline, as to correct, guide, and lead in the right direction. Hebrews 12:6-7 says:
“For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.” It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline? (Hebrews 12:6-7 ESV)
God’s discipline is His accepting us as His children. His conviction is Him leading us to safety. In Ephesians 6:4, parents are called not to provoke their children, but to raise them in the discipline of the Lord. As God leads us in His direction, that means He will lead us away from things that are not of Him because that’s what loving fathers do who care about their children. He does this not to simply take from our lives, but to add to our lives. It takes spiritual maturity to receive God’s love this way, but it is Him loving us more than we know. So next time you experience the Lord’s discipline, receive it as His love to give you what’s best.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for leading me in the right direction even when it hurts. I trust You know what’s best for me and out of an abundance of love, desire more for me. I love You too. In Jesus Christ’s Name, I pray, Amen.