Hebrews 12:6 (LSB) 6 For those whom the Lord loves He disciplines, And He flogs every son whom He receives.”
In yesterday’s devotional we established the fact that Jesus told Peter that Satan had demanded (requested God’s permission) to sift the disciples like wheat (attack them viciously).
Today’s let’s discuss why this happens, and how God’s sovereignty plays a massive role in our lives, even when we may not understand it or recognize it.
In the scripture from yesterday’s devotional, Luke 22:31-32, Jesus stated that Satan had “demanded” that he be able to sift the disciples like wheat.
So, before we go any further, let’s look at the word “demand”, and see what it really means.
The Greek word used for demand is exaiteomai (ἐξαιτέομαι). It is a rare verb, and strong in its overtone or implication.
In his demand, Satan is requesting of God a “handing over” of the disciples, much like what happened to Job during his time of great trial (Job 1:1 – Job 2:7).
With that clearly understood, let’s look at Hebrews 12:6, above.
When we submit ourselves to God as His child, we are doing more than simply accepting an invitation to dwell in His presence for eternity. That eternal dwelling is the end result.
But for most of us there is a lot of earth-focused living that we must walk out before breathing our last breath and surrendering our spirit to Him.
And it is during that period here on earth that we live in human skin as a child of the Most-High God. It is also during this time that we must learn to surrender ourselves to Him, willingly accepting His discipline as part of being His child.
Discipline, no matter the type, or by whom it is doled out, is never comfortable. This is true with God as well.
But it is that same discipline (chastening) that causes us to become who God desires that we be, provided we submit ourselves wholly to Him instead of resisting it, kicking and screaming every time we run into difficult circumstances.
Seasons of difficulty and trials refine us, teach us perseverance, and build our character. But they also teach us to lean on and trust God.
Romans 5:3-4 (NKJV) 3 And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; 4 and perseverance, character; and character, hope.
Please join us tomorrow as we complete this series.
Pastor Curt & Pastor Ellie
Seven Seas Ministries
49 N Lamplighters Walk
Hampstead, NC 28443
401-439-3780
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