Daily Devotional (July-08-2023) WHEN THE LORD LOVES YOU
Scripture Reference: Hebrews 12:4-6 (The Living Bible). - “After all, you have not yet given your lives in your struggle against sin. And have you entirely forgotten the encouraging words God spoke to you, his children? He said, “My child, don’t ignore it when the Lord disciplines you, and don’t be discouraged when he corrects you. For the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes those he accepts as his children”
Resisting sin is a very important part of our lives as Christians. Without it, we would have lives of hypocrisy, mixing right and wrong, with no difference between us and unbelievers.
God is encouraging us to continue to resist sin in all its forms, no matter how difficult. Don’t stop. Please continue. In resisting sin, you haven’t reached the point of dying or physical injury.
Our passage then refers to “encouraging words”. What are these “encouraging words”? “My child, don’t ignore it when the Lord disciplines you, and don’t be discouraged when he corrects you”.
This refers to the painful aspects of our Christian lives that are not due to the devil, demons or wicked people. This pain is from God Himself. He is disciplining us as His very own children. He knows how to discipline His children.
Our passage says the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes those he accepts as his children. It means there is pain that is actually a manifestation of God’s deep love for you.
The desire of God is for you to prosper and to have an unending victory.
When you go through some painful experiences, do not always “resist”, “bind”, “loose”, “deal with” and “come against”. Sometimes, you should ask God what He intends to teach you or correct.
PRAYER - Thank you Lord for your love that keeps us strong always and encouraging us not to give up but continue in you. My faith is strengthen and I know God has not given up on me and I will not give up on myself in Jesus Mighty Name. Amen!