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Scripture: Proverbs 3:11-12
Song: O Thou Fount Of Every Blessing
The chastening of the Lord comes in a variety of forms as the Scriptures themselves illustrate.
Punishment. The child conceived by David’s adultery died as punishment for David’s crime. The penalty invoked shows the distinction between the guilt and the consequences of sin. God forgave but still ordained that David suffer consequences for his sin because he had “given great occasion to the enemies of the Lord to blaspheme” (2 Samuel 12:14). "Be sure your sin will find you out” (Numbers 32:23).
Preventative. Were we privy to the counsel of God we might find that some of life’s difficulties were intended for our own safety. Paul was privileged to learn that the reason for his “thorn in the flesh” was to prevent him from being “exalted above measure” (2 Corinthians 12:7). The Lord at times may build fences to keep us within safe bounds.
Pruning. “Every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit” (John 15:2). Sometimes our good deeds, kind words, and godly conduct will be rewarded with evil. Take courage. Such is evidence of your fruitfulness. The Lord may be trimming some of the dead wood so that your harvest will be sweeter and more abundant still.
Don’t despise the chastening of the Lord in whatever form it comes. In fact, pray that it comes for it’s a sign of the Father’s love for His children.
Jason Moore
