God’s Discipline Proves His Love
1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. 2 We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith.[a] Because of the joy[b] awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne. 3 Think of all the hostility he endured from sinful people;[c] then you won’t become weary and give up. 4 After all, you have not yet given your lives in your struggle against sin.
5 And have you forgotten the encouraging words God spoke to you as his children?[d] He said,
“My child,[e] don’t make light of the Lord’s discipline, and don’t give up when he corrects you. 6 For the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes each one he accepts as his child.”[f]
7 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? 8 If God doesn’t discipline you as he does all of his children, it means that you are illegitimate and are not really his children at all. 9 Since we respected our earthly fathers who disciplined us, shouldn’t we submit even more to the discipline of the Father of our spirits, and live forever?[g]
10 For our earthly fathers disciplined us for a few years, doing the best they knew how. But God’s discipline is always good for us, so that we might share in his holiness. 11 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.
12 So take a new grip with your tired hands and strengthen your weak knees. 13 Mark out a straight path for your feet so that those who are weak and lame will not fall but become strong.
Footnotes:
a. Hebrews 12:2 Or Jesus, the originator and perfecter of our faith.
b. Hebrews 12:2 Or Instead of the joy.
c. Hebrews 12:3 Some manuscripts read Think of how people hurt themselves by opposing him. d. Hebrews 12:5 Greek sons; also in 12:7, 8.
e. Hebrews 12:5 Greek son; also in 12:6, 7.
f. Hebrews 12:6 Prov 3:11-12 (Greek version).
g. Hebrews 12:9 Or and really live?
2 comments:
Amazing right???? This goes into to my "should read every morning" category.
Father, thank Yo for all You have given us. For caring enough about us as Your children to discipline us. Give us all the strength to keep our eyes focused on You and endure.
Your son,
cas
1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up.
Timely as always. I've had a strong calling from God recently to stop drinking and start losing some weight, as I have found comfort and distraction in eating and having a beer or three when I get home from work. Instead, I'm trying to lean on Him and focus more on my faith, family, and my job, and less on myself.
Father, thank you for bringing me back to your path and having ears to hear you when you are speaking to me, even if it takes some time. Keep me focused on those things you want me to do, and give me the opportunities to share your word. In Jesus' name
Amen
crb
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