DISCIPLINE PART TWO

>Like we said in our part one of this STUDY, Discipline is a choice . . . your choice. It is a decision. Better yet, all your decisions. 

When you understand discipline as a choice, you are in control, not anyone or anything else. More discipline, more choice, more control. Less discipline, less choice, less control. 

 

 

In Heb. 12:4-11.  We see reference to discipline (chastisement) ten good times in eight verses, we shall therefore consider this part two under this text. 

 

In this text, we see that discipline ids God’s loving training of his children to become spiritual champions and not punishment.  

 

1. God's discipline is a sign of a personal relationship Heb. 12:6-7 
   
   God's discipline flows out of his love for us. We are his children. Unlike human parents, he never disciplines in anger. If he did he would destroy us, reducing us to nothing Jer. 10:23-25; Ps 118:18. 
   
    
2. God's discipline is oftentimes painful Heb. 12:11 
   
   The author of Hebrews quotes Prov 3:11 that says, "Do not despise the Lord's instruction, my son" Prov. 3:11. As a result, they become bitter, hardened, scornful, and filled with hate. 
   
   
3. God disciplines for an ultimate purpose Heb. 12:10-11; Rom 8:29 
   
   Discipline is always preparatory to blessing and can bring nothing but blessing when rightly received. Heb. 12:9 
   
   Discipline makes us mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2,4.  
   
   Paul knows what discipline meant. 2 Cor. 12:10. 
   
   When our attitudes are right, God can use those hardships to change us more like his son. When that happens we will cross the tape becoming a spiritual champion.