Tag Archives: discipline

November 4
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“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 spirits and live! They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness.” (Hebrews 12:9-10, NIV)

God’s plan for you and me is that we become like Him.  This state is called “holiness,” and it was what God had in mind when He created us “in His image and after His likeness.” (Genesis 1:26a)  Through the heritage of sin, we fall short of our original destiny.

God is at work in us (always) through our circumstances (all of them) for our good. We aid the process through obedience to God. We hinder God’s work in us when we delay, debate, or detour.

How do we know when to get involved — or when to get out?

It begins with our full commitment to do whatever it is that God spirit leads us to do; and full confidence in our heavenly Father’s plan for us.  – Luther

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November 3
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“Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? If you are not disciplined — and everyone undergoes discipline — then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all.” (Hebrews 12:7-8, NIV)

Even as flawed parents, we hope that our children will become as we are — only better. So, we allow various kind of inconveniences (of varying severity) to achieve that goal. Perfect in every way, our heavenly Father’s ultimate goal for you and for me is that we become exactly like Him!

Whether we view the inevitable hardships of life as punishment (as some do); or as preparation (as others do), depends on the nature of our relationship with God.

When difficulties and hardships invade your life, do you ask, “Why”; or do you ask, “Why not?”  – Luther

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October 22
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“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” (2 Timothy 1:7, NIV)

Who doesn’t want power?

Who doesn’t want to be loved?

Who doesn’t want self-discipline?

God’s spirit within us provides the wherewithal to live confidently; to walk boldly; and to control the only thing in this world that we truly have a say about: Our own actions.

It is only through obedience that we release the power of the Holy Spirit — the third Person of the Trinity (Father, Son, Holy Spirit), Who lives within us. Failure to obey the Spirit leads to the same unfruitful ends as failing to obey a road map, or a recipe.  – Luther

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