Divine Discipline, 2of2

~ The Instruments of Divine Discipline ~

The Word (for correction and instruction)  ~  “All Scripture [the Word of God] is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

The Thorn (for prevention, humility, and power)  ~  “Lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure.  Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me.  And He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’  Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.  Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake.  For when I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Corinthians 12:7-10).

The Knife (for pruning and effectiveness)  ~  Jesus said, “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser.  Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit” (John 15:1-2). 

The Rod (for punishment and reproof)  ~  “You have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons: ‘My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord, nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him; for whom the Lord loves He chastens, and scourges every son whom He receives.’  If you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten?” (Hebrews 12:5-7).  “Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child; the rod of correction will drive it far from him” (Proverbs 22:15).  “Wise discipline imparts wisdom; spoiled adolescents embarrass their parents” (Proverbs 29:15, The Message).

~ Robert Lloyd Russell, ABUNDANT LIFE NOW

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