Friday, June 16, 2017

DAD'S DISCIPLINE

Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father? If you are not disciplined (and everyone undergoes discipline), then you are illegitimate children and not true sons. Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of our spirits and live! Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness.  Hebrews 12:7-11 (NIV)

“No, Dad. I didn’t do it.”
“Son, tell me the truth now.”

“No, Dad. I didn’t do it.”
“Son, tell me the truth now.

“No, Dad. I didn’t do it.”

Realizing there was a problem here, my Dad asked his 5 year-old son, “Son, what is the truth?”

With some trepidation, I responded, “It’s what you tell your Dad to keep from getting a spanking.”

We have to be taught the difference between truth and lie. We have to be taught the difference between right and wrong, and discipline is often needed to make the instruction emphatic. Fathers are on the front line in this responsibility, and fortunate is the child whose father is active and wise in this role.

At the beginning of their relationship, God gave the children of Israel the Ten Commandments to make clear what is right and what is wrong.  The Old Testament is full of lessons and discipline leading them toward holiness. Loving discipline is key in showing the way to true life and holiness.

Father, thank You for Your guidance and discipline in our lives.  Lead us in the way that leads toward holiness that we may enjoy eternity with You. Amen.

© 2017 Parker Wayland


1 comment:

Christy said...

What a powerful comparison. Our earthly Father wants us to speak the truth and behave accordingly.

So does our Heavenly Father.

Nice reminder in this devotional.

Christy