He is never hasty in using 'the rod'',

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"He does not afflict willingly." Lamentations 52:33

Our afflictions do not come by 'accident'—but from our Father's wisdom, holiness and love. He finds no pleasure in our pains, groans, and sighs. He is never hasty in using 'the rod'. His mercy flies to help us—but He is slow to anger and of great kindness. He never afflicts us without a sufficient cause—either . . .
sin has been committed; 
duties have been neglected;
mercies have been slighted; 
lukewarmness has crept in; 
 worldly-mindedness has been tolerated; 
privileges have been abused; 
warnings have been despised; 
temptations have been trifled with;
or danger is near. 

He never afflicts without a good and gracious intention:
to make us fear, loathe, and flee from sin;
to show His disapprobation of our unholy course; 
to quicken us in His ways;
to make us long for, seek, and partake of His holiness;
to produce contrition and godly sorrow. 

He only afflicts . . .
partially, 
occasionally, 
sparingly. 

He always 'strikes' in love, and aims at our spiritual welfare. We are often more benefited by afflictions, than we are by comforts and joys. O Saviour, sanctify to me every afflicting stroke!

"In faithfulness You have afflicted me!" Psalm 119:75

"It was good for me to be afflicted!" Psalm 119:7