The Benefits Of Discipline

The Benefits of Discipline

As you endure this divine discipline, remember that God is treating you as his own children. Who ever heard of a child who is never disciplined by its father? . . . But God’s discipline is always good for us, so that we might share in his holiness. No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening—it’s painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way. Hebrews 12:7, 10-11

This view of discipline should be obvious to any of you who are parents or bosses or in some position of authority with others who should look to you for direction or guidance. What if you had to provide feedback to those individuals without being able to establish discipline and enforce it with consequences? For example, say your child darts into the street or comes home after curfew or pulls the dog’s tail. Without discipline and consequences for the violation of the rules, you’d be stuck trying to reason with your son or daughter with little satisfaction or opportunity to change the child’s behavior.

And for those of you with children, you know that at times discipline can be an arduous, uphill battle. You know that children don’t seem to process things and experiences the same way adults do. Lauren and I have seven children between the ages of two and twenty-six, children at all stages of development. I can tell you from experience that children are always precious, but they can be trying sometimes.

Therefore, we have to create consequences for them. Consequences that are a part of a system of discipline that sets up parameters and guidelines of what is and is not acceptable behavior. Otherwise chaos ensues; behavior potentially worsens as they continue to defy the rules.

It may be painful at the time when the Lord directs us to discipline our children, but as He shows us when He disciplines us, it is necessary for their health and well-being.

In the same way, it’s no fun when the Lord disciplines you, but as the verse says, He’s doing it for your good. Actions have consequences. Just like a parent teaches a child.

Uncommon Key > What discipline needs to be enacted in your life? Discipline helps you be the very best you can be and helps others to be the very best they can be. Whether it’s human or divine, it’s not always fun, but it helps you grow.