Corrected by His Love

The Bible says we are to patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage, but most people are only interested in being encouraged. Let's face it, that's the part that feels good right? While it's true that we all need encouragement, there are times that we also need correction. It's hard for some ministries that speak the truth to grow because no one wants to feel convicted anymore. Sadly, some people won't even draw closer to God because they know He will require something of them.

The rebuke and correction of the Lord is not meant to condemn us but to shine a light on our path and lead us into the right direction. If it were not for His chastisement our flesh would have the potential to take control, leading us to a life of sinful and destructive behavior.

When you feel like God is on your case, crushing your dreams and rerouting your plans, understand it's because He loves you enough to bring correction in your life. The truth is, that doesn't always feel good, and it may even hurt. Sometimes ungodly relationships are removed, we don't get what we want and think we need, or an onslaught of trials force us to run to Him. Whatever your current situation may be, He will use anything to draw you closer and get you back on the path that leads to your destiny. Oh, you still have a free choice, but you will not experience peace and fulfillment until you give Him your attention and surrender it all to Jesus.

He's a good Father and as such He will discipline those He calls His own. That's not extreme punishment but true love that is actively molding and shaping our lives into something that will bring Him glory! He sees your potential and He's narrowing the road that leads to Him! Learn from His correction and use it as a launching pad for your God-designed purpose and relationship with Him. Hebrews 12:8 &10-11 (NLT) If God doesn't discipline you as he does all of his children, it means that you are illegitimate and are not really his children at all. 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. 2 Timothy 4:1-5 (NLT) I solemnly urge you in the presence of God and Christ Jesus, who will someday judge the living and the dead when he comes to set up his Kingdom: Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching. For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. They will reject the truth and chase after myths. But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don’t be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you.