Our parents corrected us for the short time of our childhood as it seemed good to them. But God corrects us throughout our lives for our own good, giving us an invitation to share his holiness.
Hebrews 12:10 TPT
The book of Hebrews reminds us that while our parents disciplined us for a short time, “God corrects us throughout our lives for our own good, giving us an invitation to share in his holiness” (Hebrews 12:10, TPT). This verse builds upon Solomon’s proverb in Proverbs 19:18, which encourages parents to discipline their children. However, Hebrews takes us a step further, revealing another dimension of discipline – God’s discipline.
There are inherent limitations to parental discipline. Firstly, its duration is confined to our childhood, “the time when there is hope” (Proverbs 19:18). Secondly, our parents’ own knowledge and experiences limit its effectiveness. They can only discipline us based on what they themselves know. As loving as they may be, parents cannot give more than they have. Their guidance, however wise, is finite.
God, on the other hand, is all-knowing and all-wise. He doesn’t just discipline us; He offers perfect discipline. He understands our deepest needs and possesses wisdom far surpassing any human parent. God’s discipline is not about punishment; it’s about transforming us into His image.
Unlike our parents’ temporary discipline, God’s discipline is lifelong. He invites everyone who follows Jesus. This discipline has a purpose: to make us holy. As humans, we are inherently flawed and cannot enter God’s presence on our own. However, Christ’s sacrifice grants us access to God.
The Bible invites us to not only come to Christ but also to “bear the yoke of Christ” (Matthew 11:29). This “yoke” symbolizes learning and discipline from Jesus. This ongoing process shapes us to meet God’s standards of holiness.
While parental discipline is valuable, don’t neglect the lifelong spiritual discipline offered by God. This discipline equips us to become who He desires, sharing in His holiness and living a life that glorifies Him. Embrace both forms of discipline and allow yourself to be transformed into the person God created you to be.
