1 SAMUEL 2:27-36
“Now no chastening (discipline) for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.” (Hebrews 12:11)
Discipline provides people with rules to live their lives competently and productively. When we are disciplined, we can make small sacrifices in the present for a better life in the future. Discipline creates habits, habits make routines, and routines become who we are daily.
Discipline (whether for us or others) must begin before character is permanently twisted.
Eli the priest had two sons whom he failed to discipline. When their misconduct got out of hand that he could no longer disregard it, he tried gentle rebuke (1 Samuel 2:24-25). But this was too late, their cups were already full (1 Samuel 3:11-13).
Being straightened out is painful, but being left crooked will ultimately hurt even more.
God’s love confronts and corrects. Our love as parents, brethren, colleagues and friends should do same.
🙏 Lord Jesus, help us to be disciplined and to discipline others when the need arises. May we respond with repentance and obedience to Your ways. Amen.
