The Benefit of Discipline

We don’t think of the topic of discipline as somehow devotional worthy.  It is usually because we view the word with only a negative connotation.  Discipline can certainly be painful and hurt at times, but a careful study of the word puts it in its proper context.  The Greek word translated as “disciplines” in this verse is PAIDEUO.  It can be translated also as chasten, instruct, teach, and learn.  For example, Stephen references Moses when he says, “Moses was PAIDEUO or ‘educated’ in all the learning of the Egyptians.” (Acts 7:22) Paul claimed to be “educated” or PAIDEUO under Gamaliel in Acts 22:3.  In classical Greek, the word is used for a parent who formally “trains” their children. But it can be a harsh word depending on the behavior of the believer.  For example, Paul handed over Hymenaeus and Alexander to Satan so that they would be “taught” or PAIDEUO not to blaspheme. (I Tim. 1:20)

Why is this so praiseworthy?  Because no matter how bad we behave at times.  No matter how much we have fallen short.  Even if we have some dry prodigal-like years because we have trusted and have put our faith in Jesus, we will always be a child of God.  Your heavenly Father loves you and disciplines you for your own good.  He never vengefully seeks to harm you, but His discipline is to bring you back into fellowship with Him.  No father or mother worthy of parenthood would ever discipline their son or daughter as a means of seeing them suffer for their rebellion.  We smack a child’s hand with assertive force when they reach for the hot stove, so that in the future, they would not attempt it again.  We “hurt” them for their own good.  Listen to what Jesus says in the book of Revelation, “Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline (PAIDEUO); therefore be zealous and repent.” (3:19) He waits for you with open arms to return to Him.  Jesus always has our best interest at heart when it comes to this type of discipline.  You must be part of the royal family to be treated this way.  I am so thankful that I am a child of God, and my good, good Father is looking out for me!!!  Warning: If you walk away from the Lord, He will never let us really feel at ease; He will continue to PAIDEUO us back to Himself

Dave F. 

    ‘69 / ‘76 / Egg Harbor Twp   NJ

Doris Jean H

’44 / ’55 Manheim PA