What do the Scriptures say? “For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth” (Pr. 3:12). “For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth” “If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons (children); for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?” (Heb. 12:6-7). These verses reveal how we should respond to God’s correction/chastisement.
There is a purpose for the process. The process usually involves pain and gain. The process begins with a broken relationship with God (Isa. 59:2). The process involves rebuke, response, and restored fellowship with both God and man (1 John 1:9). There are no shortcuts, bandaids, or overnight miracles. When you sin, there is chastening, consequences, and correction.
Learn: Respond correctly to avoid chastisement.
Learn: When you respond incorrectly your Heavenly Father continues chastening until it is corrected. God chastens/corrects because He loves us as His children.
He wants what is best for us. God does not chasten us because we do wrong but corrects so we will not do wrong again. When it is corrected, chastising ceases. God rebukes until you respond and react correctly. The more you resist the more He responds. He will win! He knows how to make you say “uncle.” You control choices but not consequences. How to know when you have responded correctly? You become better, not bitter. How to know when you responded incorrectly? You become bitter, not better. 1 Peter 5:10 gives the answer. “But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, (results) make you perfect (complete), stablish, strengthen, settle you.” “After” means it is now over (Thank God). Father knows best! The end process is that you are now stronger, sweeter and more sensitive.
Warning! If you stubbornly continue, chastisement also continues. This Bible principle also applies to your children. You do not spank (correct) them because they did wrong. You spank them in love so they will not do wrong again. After correction you watch to see if they are better or bitter. The purpose of the process is to restore broken relationships. Let’s learn! Don’t resist but respond correctly to correction/chastisement. Choices are yours: Correction vs Chastisement – Resist or Respond. Selah!
Seasonal Humor: If you take all the meat out of a hotdog what do you have? A Holloweener!
