Enduring discipline

One word: Discipline.

What comes to mind? For me recently, it has involved both physical and spiritual aspects, exercising my body as well as my heart and soul.

This past weekend I ran in my first ever 5K to support a local crisis pregnancy center.

Brother and I ran it along with our cousin.

 

I never imagined myself actually completing a race, but as I crossed the finish line, it felt so good! As I've reflected on this experience, I can't help but think of how my heavenly Father has been disciplining me lately in spiritual aspects.

 

Some days it hurts so badly. Other days I welcome it.

 

Hebrews 12:7-11 says,

 

" Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? If you are not disciplined—and everyone undergoes discipline—then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all. Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness. 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." [emphasis added]

 

Regardless of whether you are the discipliner or the disciplinee, the process is a difficult one. With that in mind, our Lord disciplines us because He loves us. I'm sure you've heard that line before-

"This hurts me more than it hurts you!"

When my heart hurts (almost literally), I have to remember that my Father's does too. He wants what is best for me and takes me from where I am to where I need to be. Point A to Point B. I see the beginning; He sees the end. And am I ever grateful for that!

 

The race may be a long one, but He will be ever by my side, encouraging me in His always gentle way. Time to lace up my shoes for the run!