June 10, 2015 (Song of Songs 1-4; Ephesians 6)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux
Scripture: “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:4 NLT)
Observation: The purpose of parental discipline is to help children grow and learn the difference between right and wrong. It’s the Lord’s desire for parents to teach children about him and instruct them on how they should conduct themselves in every situation. The purpose of discipline is not to enrage or discourage children, but rather to encourage and protect them. Part of the instruction process is teaching your children the purpose of discipline. When children understand “why” they are being disciplined they develop the right attitude about discipline and learn not to despise it. God disciplines us for the same reasons and His word clearly declares why He disciplines His children, He disciplines because He loves. Hebrews 12:10-11 (NLT) states, “For our earthly fathers disciplined us for a few years, doing the best they knew how. But God’s discipline is always good for us, so that we might share in His holiness. No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening – it’s painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way.”
Application: I must confess that I have failed many times in this arena. I was not disciplined as a child in the way God instructs and I repeated what I had experienced as a child when I became an adult. But thank God for His mercy on me! He has disciplined me as one of His own and transformed my understanding by the renewing of my mind. God has opened up my understanding by revealing His truths through His word. Discipline is not something to despise but rather something to be thankful for. When we learn to embrace discipline as an act of love we have a whole new perspective about it. “If you reject discipline, you only harm yourself; but if you listen to correction, you grow in understanding.” Proverbs 15:32 (NLT) Many parents, and children, in our society today have made the choice to openly reject discipline and the truths Gods Word teaches. Ultimately we see the results of this rejection throughout our nation.
Prayer: Dear Lord, I know you have forgiven me for the mistakes of ignorance in my past and for that I am truly thankful. However, I still desire forgiveness from those I hurt through my ignorance. Please Lord, touch them and help them understand my hearts intentions. My desire was never to harm or hurt them, rather I sought to correct and instruct them because of my sincere love for them. Truly at that moment I was indeed doing the best I knew how. Thank you again for your mercy and grace that has transformed my understanding and renewed my mind. In Jesus name, Amen.