Scripture Notes on Hebrews 12
It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline? If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. (Hebrews 12:7-8, 11)
Think of the ruin that comes from a flood. Torrents of water can cause great harm as they rise, undirected and spilling everywhere.
Dams and riverbeds restrict the water, but in doing so they channel it into something useful, something good.
So it is with our lives.
When God disciplines us, it is not intended for our punishment, but for our peace. It is God using any means necessary to channel our lives and hearts into the good purposes He has for us, purposes that sin will inhibit if not dealt with.
God may allow or even cause pain in your life, but it is only and always because He loves you, and it is never His first choice.
Listen to His whispers and pay attention to His Word so that you will have no need of stronger discipline. If and when it comes, though, do not lose heart, and do not misunderstand what your Heavenly Father is doing. Far from showing you His wrath, God is showing you His love, so be encouraged by this truth.
God gives you discipline to bring you peace.
-Pastor Phillip
