Crayons For Jesus


Saturday, January 3, 2009 Print E-mail
My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline or be weary of his reproof, for the Lord reproves him whom he loves, as a father the son in whom he delights. Proverbs 3:11-12

It is easier to be certain of the Lord’s love when all is well than when we feel his discipline. The presence of such discipline may cause many to question the truth of God’s love for them. This verse guides us into the truth of the matter and reassures us that yes, even in discipline the Lord’s love is proven steadfast and true.

To reprove means to correct gently or with kindly intent. The root of all reproof is love. Because God wishes for us not to experience the dire consequences of sin, he gently disciplines us as necessary. Sometimes we miss these gentle reminders and actually fall into great consequence! But if we listen and allow God to bring to light our failings, he is faithful at correcting us always in love. Even when the discipline is heavy, we can see that there is love behind it.

A father would not let a son step waywardly because it would be his own undoing. In the same way, God does not want us to step from his path of righteousness. To do so would mean our own downfall. It would be irresponsible of a parent to ignore the trouble a son might be stepping into. In the same way, it would be irresponsible and it would contradict the definition of love for God to allow the same with us.

A way to strengthen your bond with God is to open yourself to reproof. A way to step in faith is to allow God to bring to light the mistakes and sins we might not be aware of. It can be scary looking inwardly and then asking God to reveal our sin, but in doing so we allow him to remove it. In removing sin, we are further being refined and restored into relationship with God. 

Whether you feel only a gentle admonition or even if you feel the heavy hand of God’s discipline, always remember it is proof that he loves you. It is proof that he has not and will not give up on you. It is proof that he is still willing, able, and actively working in your life to mold you into Christ’s image as he promised he would. He will complete the good work he’s begun in you. You can be especially sure of this when you feel his gentle reproof.

Remember, whether praise or discipline from God, both are proof of his continued presence and promise in our lives. Take heart, take reproof, and continue onward!

Father God,
It is hard to think that you could love us when we feel your hand heavy on us. In the moments when we must be reminded of our waywardness please help it to also be a moment when we are reminded of the grace available to us. God, grant us courage and increase our intimacy with you. Help us to be led by your spirit into the dark and maybe not so clean parts of our lives. Remind us that as you reveal the bad and deal with it, you will bring something far better than we could imagine to replace it.  Your reproof is not always easy, but Father help us to remember it is always necessary and is a reminder of your love for us. We are your sons, correct us and love us as such. Amen.