Disciplining a Disciple
by Ashlee Tomaro
“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 12:11
Over the summer I met up with a friend and her sons for a playdate at the park. Our kids had such a blast running around, jumping, sliding, and just being kids. When my friend and I decided it was time to leave, my son was not pleased.
My son was so upset with me, in fact, he decided to run across the parking lot to our car. I fearfully chased him down and thanked God that no cars were entering or exiting at that moment. He knows how to behave around cars and parking lots, but his anger got the best of him. Because of his disobedience, I had to discipline him. This experience was not pleasant for either of us. I talked with him about what happened at the park, unfortunately, he continued to be upset with me for hours after.
Being a parent is hard! Disciplining my kids takes so much time and energy and is almost always guaranteed to be unpleasant. But is it worth it? Yes! Disciplining my children is one way to show I love to them, how much I care about them and want them to be aware of boundaries. Being a passive parent may sound attractive at times, but it does not promote peace and can perpetuate problems.
It is in these moments I think about how God has disciplined me for the choices I’ve made. Our choices always have a consequence, good or bad. God is our loving father who wants the best for us and is always active in our lives regardless of whether we see it. He is training us in the same way I am training my children. We have the same end goal which is living an abundant life for Him and for His glory.
“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 12:11
Over the summer I met up with a friend and her sons for a playdate at the park. Our kids had such a blast running around, jumping, sliding, and just being kids. When my friend and I decided it was time to leave, my son was not pleased.
My son was so upset with me, in fact, he decided to run across the parking lot to our car. I fearfully chased him down and thanked God that no cars were entering or exiting at that moment. He knows how to behave around cars and parking lots, but his anger got the best of him. Because of his disobedience, I had to discipline him. This experience was not pleasant for either of us. I talked with him about what happened at the park, unfortunately, he continued to be upset with me for hours after.
Being a parent is hard! Disciplining my kids takes so much time and energy and is almost always guaranteed to be unpleasant. But is it worth it? Yes! Disciplining my children is one way to show I love to them, how much I care about them and want them to be aware of boundaries. Being a passive parent may sound attractive at times, but it does not promote peace and can perpetuate problems.
It is in these moments I think about how God has disciplined me for the choices I’ve made. Our choices always have a consequence, good or bad. God is our loving father who wants the best for us and is always active in our lives regardless of whether we see it. He is training us in the same way I am training my children. We have the same end goal which is living an abundant life for Him and for His glory.
Heavenly Father, thank You for always wanting the best for me and being my example. You cared so much for me that you sent Your own son, Jesus. Thank You for Your loving ways and how You are teaching me to be more like You. It is through Your discipline that I am being pruned for Your grace and glory. I know that because of Your work in my life there will be a peaceful harvest of right living. Amen.
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