Did your parents ever tell you, “This is going to hurt me more than it hurts you?” No child in the world has ever believed that line. That’s partly because we can’t see beyond our pain. The truth is that it is hard to discipline those who you love. We prefer to use words, but in reality, there are going to be times where it has to be more. God will invoke tough love too. He loves you enough to bring about change in your life.
Hebrews 12:6
My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor be weary when reproved by him. For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.
Back on Track
The writer of Hebrews reminds his readers that while God loves them, part of that love includes discipline. He pulls from several Old Testament scriptures in Psalms and Proverbs to show them that because God cares so much for them that He will take necessary action to get us back on the right path. He knows our hearts can become wayward, and correction and discipline are what is needed to bring us to repentance.
Part of the Process
No one likes to be disciplined, but the believer understands it is part of the growing process. As we mature in our faith, we start to realize that God chastens us because He loves us. If we despise and fight against it, we only prolong it. Our job is to submit to his correction and let the process of healing begin. This should bring us to a time of prayer where we are asking God to show us where we need to change.
Tough Love
Be thankful for the tough love that God shows you. It isn’t easy for Him, but He is willing to do what is necessary to bring about change in your life. Afterward, we are always thankful that He was so persistent, it’s in the middle that we question what is going on. Hang in there. You will see His purposes soon enough.