CHASTEN IN LOVE

PROOF OF LOVE

Today there are many who are abused, hurt or even killed and the response though unbelievable is, because of love.  

While this should not be tolerated, because love does no evil do his neighbor, let's look at a need for correction.  

A father who loves his son will discipline him.  It could mean that he will experience pain from the beating or punishment.  It will be done in love because he loves his son and will not suffer harm to him.

Proverbs 3: 11-12 (KJV)

My son, despise not the chastening of the Lord; neither be weary of his correction:

For whom the Lord loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.

Think about the time when you had to correct your child or loved one, and think about your reasoning, the struggle you had to even approach them, but you know you had to do it because it was good for them.  

How Have you been corrected by God?

Did it hurt?

Did it allow you to return or are you still bitter about it?

Correction is evidence that you are loved by God- Don't resist it!

TODAY'S FOCUS: GOD IS NOT WILLFUL

In love God chastens, not to afflict or grieve you. It may feel that way especially when you have done wrong or fallen out of fellowship with

Lamentations 3:33 (KJV)

For he doth not afflict willingly nor grieve the children of men.

Let's explore and discuss the following:

Are you experiencing the effects of correction?

How do you view God's chastening? 

Do you feel that He is angry with you for what you did or didn't do?

Do you see it in the light of David's expression?

Psalm 119:71-72 (TLB)

The punishment you gave me was the best thing that could have happened to me, for it taught me to pay attention to your laws. They are more valuable to me than millions in silver and gold!

Can you share an experience like David of something that was taken from you, something perhaps God did not allow that turn out for your good? Perhaps like David you have learned a valuable lesson that you can share with others and the value it has placed on God's love for you.

Remember, 

God's chastening or correction is to save you from deeper suffering, pain and hurt.  It is necessary not just to promote discipline but to provide an opportunity to get you back to a place of restoration and harmony with Him.  

Like a father who corrects his son it's because He loves you, he takes the time to correct you.

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous 

Jewel