Disciples and Discipline
Proverbs 1-3; Romans 7
“My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline and do not resent his rebuke, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.”
Proverbs 3:11, 12
The essence of being a disciple is the willingness to receive discipline. Discipleship is not primarily about knowledge, but about submission. Not many choose to be disciples. Many choose to be students. Discipline hurts. David’s reflections on God’s discipline in his life as the king were passed on to Solomon. David could have resented the Lord’s rebuke, or even despised God or his messengers for their prophetic words to him; but, he chose to submit to the Lord and receive his discipline. Israel’s kings, who failed to submit to God’s discipline, didn’t finish well.
How are we responding to God’s discipline, and to the messengers God uses to speak to us?
God’s discipline is motivated by love. Like a loving father, who prepares his son or daughter for the responsibilities of an inheritance entrusted to them, God disciplines his children to know and to walk in his ways. (Note below)
Will we submit to God’s discipline today and obey his Word to us?
“Lord Jesus, thank you for your model of the loving discipline of your disciples and for your willing submission to your Father. I choose to live the same way, for your glory.”