Twin Peaks

The scripture for today is Hebrews 12:11

 

Hebrews 12:11 Now no chastening for the present seems to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which have been trained by it.

 

Our Father in heaven is the greatest parent; He has no equal. He knows what is best for us and corrects us when we are disobedient and stray into areas that could cause us harm. When we do not respond to the gentle voice of correction, He allows us to suffer the consequences of our choices in order to teach us to follow His voice and obey His instructions which are found in His Word. He does that for our good; He knows what is best, even if we do not fully understand the reasons for it. Because of His love for us, he imposes discipline, which might be temporarily uncomfortable, but ultimately it produces what is best in our lives. “And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons: "My son, do not despise the chastening of the LORD, nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him; for whom the LORD loves He chastens, and scourges every son whom He receives.” Hebrews 12:5-6

 

Chastening is not pleasurable; it is not supposed to be. It is intended to produce a degree of discomfort, but the discomfort of chastisement is nothing compared to the pain suffered by those whose lives are lived without restraint or discipline. They ultimately reap the fruit of unrighteousness as their lives degenerate into vanity, selfishness, and various sins. Ultimately, they will experience greater pain than they are able to bear.

 

But the chastening of our Father “yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness.” His children grow into branches that bear good fruit. It may take time the fruit to mature, but it will beautifully reflect the chastening hand of a loving Father. "Before I was afflicted, I went astray; but now have I kept thy word." Psalms 119:67

 

God bless you as you continue in His service.

Tim