June 1

GOD’S DISCIPLINE LEADS TO HOLINESS

Hebrews 12:10-11

For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness. Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.

Our fathers and mothers disciplined us, and now we discipline our own children. Often, however, our discipline is not perfect, especially when we offer discipline out of irritation or when we are exhausted. God’s discipline, however, is always right—and always good for us.

Today’s promise is that God’s discipline means we will share in his holiness. We already share in God’s holiness because of our faith, but God is preparing us to be truly perfect in heaven.

Of course, discipline is not enjoyable—in fact, it can be downright painful. Precisely because it is painful, we want to avoid it, and so we try to learn what God wants to avoid further pain. That’s what the writer of Hebrews meant when he said that afterward there would be a quiet harvest of right living. As we become holy, we are being prepared for heaven.

GOD’S PROMISE TO ME:

• When I discipline you, it is always right and good for you, for I am preparing you to share in my holiness.

• My discipline will result in a quiet harvest of right living in your life.

MY PRAYER TO GOD:

God, you promise that your discipline is always right and good and that I will share in your holiness. Thank you for that promise. I pray that I will learn the lessons you have for me and that I will move on to maturity. Amen.