42 We are not all chastened with the same rod
"Whom the Lord loves—He chastens; and punishes every son whom He receives." Hebrews 12:6
Every believer is beloved of his God—yet every believer is chastened by Him.
Chastisement is a proof of divine love.
We are but children—and need it.
We are His children—and therefore receive it.
Some are chastened by losses,
some by sickness,
some by the failure of their favorite schemes,
some by domestic trials,
some by the conduct of friends.
but we are all chastened by the same hand!
We are not all corrected in the same way—but we are all corrected by the same wise, holy, and loving Father!
Some suffer most in mind—others in body.
Some are tried most in their circumstances—others more in their relationships.
But let us never forget that every correction flows from divine love; every stroke is given in kindness!
If it goes to our hearts—it comes from our heavenly Father’s heart!
He does not afflict willingly, nor grieve us without purpose.
Our follies call for strokes—and our sins for rebukes!
Let us therefore humble ourselves under our Father’s hand. Let us not question His love to us, because we are so tried. Neither let us think the discipline unnecessary, and so despise His chastening.
"No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it." Hebrews 12:11