God's Not Like That: Redeeming Inherited Beliefs and Finding the Father You Long ForSample

God's Not Like a Bullying Dad

In today’s passage from Hebrews, notice the emphasis on how the father is a representation of God to His children in His correction. “God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom his father does not discipline?” (verse 7). The comparison is unmistakable. How a father disciplines his children should teach them about the loving discipline of their heavenly Father.

Discipline is an opportunity to teach children about God. Poor (or nonexistent) discipline gives children a warped view of God. Good discipline teaches children life-bringing truths about God. Either way, something is being learned about God.

For example, a father certainly can intimidate his children into submission. They may act like obedient little robots, which may impress some. However, those children will likely grow up to be resentful and to believe things about God that aren’t true.

Is that how God disciplines us? Is God a bully? If Dad is unpredictable and sometimes blows up on the kids, it will make it very difficult for them to relax in his presence. To them, Dad feels unsafe. Therefore, God feels unsafe too.

Conversely, a passive or uninvolved dad teaches kids to devalue correction. What’s worse, the father who doesn’t discipline at all teaches the children to ignore God’s warnings and corrections. The kids grow up having no respect for authority. Any correction—by God or a person—is viewed as unfair. Since they have not been properly disciplined growing up, when God’s discipline comes, they may become resentful, angry, and confused.

Fathers are called to paint a picture at home of God as a patient and loving disciplinarian. Not as harsh and angry. Not as disconnected and apathetic. Fathers are to lovingly coach their children along the path of life through encouragement and correction.

How was God depicted by your dad at home? Complete the sentence: “If God is like my dad, that means He is…”