This post is Day 18 in a series of studies about “Children of God”. I strongly suggest you begin with the introduction to this study, please click here to read it.

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Children of God – Day 18

The frailty of man is wanting to be independent and we often live our lives without God until something goes wrong. Then we blame Him and expect Him to put it right. It seems that the Lord has to allow difficulties in order to reveal more of Himself to us.

Hebrews 12:7-8

Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as His children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? If you are not disciplined (and everyone undergoes discipline), then you are illegitimate children and not true sons.

The Thought

“Why do we have to suffer” is a regular cry from Christians, and non Christians alike. But unfortunately, the fact is that if we never had difficulties, too many of us would never seek the Lord. History shows us that in times of national crises the church will rise up and pray. In times of personal difficulty, Christians and non-believers alike seek the Lord for help.

The frailty of man is wanting to be independent and too often we live our lives without God until something goes wrong. Then we blame Him for it and expect Him to put it right. It seems that the Lord has to allow our difficulties in order to reveal more of Himself to us.

Be encouraged that in Heaven there will be no more suffering, no more pain, no more tears. None of us want to be the illegitimate children described in this verse from the book of Hebrews. And so we must expect the Lord’s discipline from time to time, especially if we get off track.

Action

Read Hebrews 12:1-13 today and reflect on what the writer says about the discipline The Lord gives His children.

Pray today for the Lord to teach you what you need to learn through any events in your life right now. Pray for others you know who are struggling with issues to learn their lessons quickly.

Praise God that everything He allows us to go through is for our own good and ultimately for His Glory. Praise Him that He is a patient and loving teacher.

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