Revcort's Ramblings

Scripture Reading:

“For those whom the Lord loves He disciplines, and He scourges every son whom He receives.” – Hebrews 12:6

Devotional Thought:

Our culture often equates love with making people feel good—avoiding anything that might cause discomfort. In our minds, a loving God might seem like a celestial grandfather whose greatest concern is that everyone “has a good time.” But Scripture paints a much richer, more challenging picture of love.

God’s love is not merely about our happiness—it’s about our holiness. C.S. Lewis, in his book “The Problem of Pain,” reminds us that our understanding of love must be corrected by God’s truth. He says: “By the goodness of God we mean nowadays almost exclusively His lovingkindness… What would really satisfy us would be a God who said of anything we happened to like doing, “What does it matter so long as they are contented?”  

With that warped view of God’s love, our view of trials in life become just as twisted. The truth is, the hard moments, the trials, and even the painful pruning in our lives may actually be some of the clearest evidence of His love. His goal is not to leave us as we are but to shape us into the image of Christ.

If you find yourself in a season of discipline or challenge, take heart—it’s not punishment for punishment’s sake. It’s the work of a loving Father who refuses to settle for less than your best, eternal good.

Reflection Questions:

1. How does my current understanding of God’s love align—or clash—with the biblical picture of a loving Father who disciplines?

2. Have I ever mistaken God’s correction for rejection? How might I reframe those experiences in light of His love?

3. In what areas of my life might God be calling me to grow in holiness rather than just seeking comfort?

4. How could I respond differently the next time I face God’s discipline?

Closing Prayer:

Father, thank You for loving me enough to correct me. Forgive me for the times I’ve resented Your discipline or misunderstood Your heart. Help me to see trials as opportunities to grow closer to You and to become more like Jesus. Teach me to trust Your purposes, even when they stretch me beyond my comfort. Shape my heart to love holiness as You do, and let my life reflect Your truth and grace. Amen.