From Daily Embraces

He Disciplines the Children He Loves

Today's Embrace
"My son [daughter], do not despise the Lord's discipline and do not resent his rebuke, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son [daughter] he delights in." Proverbs 3:11-12 NIV

Key Thought
Heavenly Father cares so deeply for you, his son or daughter, that He refuses to spoil you. He is not an overly permissive Parent He loves you so much that He takes pains to help you mature and develop in His likeness. Although it's hard to remember at the time, His discipline is a loving act. It is not an angry act. He loves you so much that He is willing to risk having His motives and character misunderstood. How much He must love you!

My Response
Dear Heavenly Daddy,
This is very hard for me. My parents did not always discipline me in love. I often have difficulty comprehending how discipline and love go together. Yet I know that you are a loving Father. Help me to trust you to do what's best for me. Please help me remember that you delight in me and not in the necessary discipline. Help me . . .

Remember
Heavenly Father's discipline shows that He delights in me. He delights in me. Yes, He delights in me!