Discipleship Devotional Study Guide – God The Father – Hebrews 12:9-11 – Disciplines Us – Growing As Disciples
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. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. Hebrews 12:9-11 (NIV)
In Training
As you know I have never been a fan of being disciplined. Now, I would like to say something quite different. What’s that? I know that you are fair and just. I know that you are kind and loving. I know that you care for me. I know that If I need to be disciplined for my own good you will provide it. There is no doubt in my mind about this. So, I welcome your discipline in my life. You are saying something that is quite different. Yes, I am.
What do you hope my discipline will accomplish in your life? I hope to be molded and shaped by your discipline. I hope to be purified and transformed by your discipline. I want your discipline to help me to think your thoughts, speak your words and do your deeds. I want my heart and mind and life to be guided by your discipline. That is very good.
What do you think my discipline will look and feel like? I’m not positive. I have one strong suspicion. What’s that? Well, let me first say what I think I know for sure. What’s that? Your discipline will not be punitive. Your discipline will not be like a punishment. Your discipline will not feel like a spanking. Are you sure? Not completely. Maybe, your discipline could sometimes feel like a kick in the but or a spanking. It could. But, for the most part, I suspect that your discipline will look and feel more like being in training. Yes, it will.
Do you welcome my training in your life? Yes, I welcome your training in my life. I am encouraged and strengthened by your training. I am given purpose and meaning and hope by your training. Your training will make me to be more like you. To be like you is the desire of my heart. To be like you is the goal of my life. To be disciplined and trained by you gives me peace. To be trained by you will help me to bear fruit for your kingdom and bring glory to your name. Yes, it will.
Heavenly Father, I have not enjoyed the discipline I have received from you. I now know that you have disciplined me for my own good because you love me. Help me to follow you so closely that I won’t need a lot of discipline. Amen
For today’s complete 4 page Discipleship Devotional Study Guide click here:
God The Father – Hebrews 12-9-11 – Disciplines Us – 4 Page Discipleship Devotional Study Guide
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