Chastisement — a Fruit of Love
Back to Comfort for Christians
Chastisement — a Fruit of Love
"Whom the Lord loves — He chastens; and scourges every son whom He receives!" Hebrews 12:6
It is a wonder of wonders that God should love sinners — and yet it is a glorious fact. Nothing is more clearly revealed in His Word — yet nothing is more difficult to believe sometimes.
When our souls are in darkness, when our temporal affairs are in confusion, and when our bodies are in pain — then it is not easy to believe that God loves us. Yet our very trials flow from His love, and are a proof of it!
Yes, God loves His people — not because He sees any beauty or excellency in them — but simply because He chooses to love them. And because He loves them — He chastens them for their follies, and scourges them for their sins! All His children need chastisement, and they all have it — some more, some less; some in one way — and some in another.
If the Lord did not love us — He would allow us to go on in sin, and to fill up the measure of our iniquities. If He loved us less than He does — He might correct us less; but because His love to us is infinite, tender, and eternal — He seems to deal harshly with us.
Let us beware lest we mistake the nature of our afflictions, or misinterpret the design of God in our troubles. Rather, let us endeavour to believe His love, rest upon His promises, tell out all our thoughts, feelings, and fears at His throne, and say, "Though He slays me — yet will I trust in Him!" Job 13:15
Troubled believer. God loves you! He loves you even though your faith is small, and your fears are strong. He loves you even though your infirmities are many. He will show His love for you — in whatever way He deems best!
O Father, shed abroad Your love in my heart — and so fill my heart with love for You! Help me to bless You for Your love and to praise You for every stroke of Your rod!
"Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent." Revelation 3:19