My dear friends, Amy and John, have absolutely amazing adult children who love and serve the Lord, pointing people to Him through their inspirational lifestyles. They are the kind of people I feel grateful just to be around, hoping their wisdom and dedication to God will rub off on me.
The adult kids didn’t become the way they are without sacrifice. When the kids were growing up, at times they needed an adjustment of perspective. John would sometimes declare a “poverty day” to combat any attitudes of entitlement. Poverty day meant spending the day doing manual labor, chores, serving others, and eating only porridge.
Just as a loving parent corrects a child, God corrects us because He desires our good. Although it can be difficult to receive, correction is an essential part of our spiritual journeys. God uses it to shape us into His image. Hebrews 12:6 states, “The Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.”
Accepting correction requires humility. Pride resists discipline, viewing it as an attack rather than an opportunity to grow. Proverbs 15:31 reminds us, “Whoever heeds life-giving correction will be at home among the wise.” By humbling ourselves to be teachable, we allow the Holy Spirit to open us up for deeper transformation.
Ignoring discipline can lead to spiritual stagnation, but embracing it can lead to wisdom, strength, peace, and a closer walk with God. If we are serious about our spiritual growth, let’s ask ourselves if we are ready to receive His discipline with humility and trust. When the correction seems overwhelming, we can call upon Jesus to give us what we need to endure. By aligning ourselves to His will, we draw closer to Him and walk with purpose.
~ Leah Burnett
Christ Fellowship