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. 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 12:10-11 NLT).

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Let's start this devo a little different than the norm. I want you to take a minute, close your eyes, turn off the distractions, and consider – what comes to mind first when you think of discipline?  

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Maybe there are things that come to mind from your upbringing. There could be thoughts or images of what this has looked like for you as a parent. Or is discipline not something you are familiar with?

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Often, we have a view of discipline that’s been distorted by unhealthy experiences or lies. That can look like abuse, lack of discipline, or a number of things that fall short of a correct definition: a correction that is for our betterment. Let’s face it, our imperfection means that we don’t always get discipline right, and that can leave us with a twisted view. Combine this with the reality that discipline isn’t enjoyable when it's happening, and it can feel like it's not for our good at all.

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We’re reminded in today’s passage of how God’s discipline is always good for us. Not some of the time, not when it feels like it, not when we recognize its value… Always! In fact, the writer says afterward there will be a “peaceful harvest of right living.” I want a peaceful harvest of right living; don’t you? But what if that’s only half the equation?

At the end of verse 11 is an important condition – for those who are trained in this way. That indicates an emphasis on how we engage with discipline. How do you look at the hard things in life? Do you hunker down until you reach the other side? Do you blame God for what’s happened? Or do you look for how God is causing everything to work together for the good of those who love him and are called according to his purpose for them?

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Now think back to that image or idea of discipline you had in mind a few minutes ago. Does that align with God’s character and the refining discipline he has? Is there any twisted understanding of discipline holding you back from taking one step forward toward a peaceful harvest of right living? One of the best ways to get perspective (especially when clarity is tough in the moment) is to be closely surrounded with other followers of Jesus to speak truth and encouragement to each other. If you’re not already in community, join a small group and learn what it looks like to do life with God’s people. Our ACF Groups Launch is coming up August 23.  

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If you are in a place of struggling to understand how discipline can be a good thing, there is likely the need for a perspective shift to the lens of truth. For example, if you have a hard time seeing how God is good if you endure pain, consider that Jesus endured death on a cross for you and me. Maybe you’re questioning why this is a journey that takes time – God wants to do a deep work in your soul that takes engagement and persevering. The list goes on… So open your mind to Jesus and listen to the better way that the Lord has for you today!

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Lord, I acknowledge that I don’t always receive discipline well. In fact, I can often have a distorted view of what that even means. Would you reveal to me where I have a misunderstanding or believe lies about this? Jesus, would your sacrifice to the point of death, for my good, be a testament of how far you are willing to go to make me right. Amen.