Treasures From God: Devotions From Time of GraceSample

Whatever happened to discipline?

Why is it that we notice other people’s kids’ disobedience so much quicker than our own? Maybe it’s because parents of small children have to grow partially and temporarily deaf to survive. You just can’t hear all the crying or you will go insane.

If you want to appreciate God’s huge job in training you, just listen to other parents attempting to teach their children self-control and some degree of restraint. “No, Billy. Stop it, Billy. I mean it, Billy. Stop that right now! Or else!” Aagghh!

Some of the greatest work on earth is done by parents who teach their children that no means no. Who insist on obedience the first time. Who teach kids to wait. Who teach kids to defer gratification. Who teach the value and dignity of work. Who will impose painful consequences, not because they hate their children but because they love them so.

Incidentally, that may explain some features of how God treats you. Like me, you are a work in progress. “My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son” (Hebrews 12:5,6).

Not all pain is bad. Not every no is bad. It’s because God loves us. It’s because he accepts us as his children.