When The Door Slams
For no one is cast off by the Lord forever. Though he brings grief. he will show compassion, so great is his unfailing love. For he does not willingly bring affliction or grief to anyone. Lamentations 3:31-33
In many homes today, ranging across all social, economic and educational lines, the horrendous crime of child abuse is being committed everyday because of stress in the home. Physically abusive parents seem to have many similarities. Instead of dealing with their own negative feelings, they assault their children. Physical abusers often come from violent homes and enter adulthood with unmet needs.
If you were raised by physically abusive person, you have experienced the horror of being punished to serve their purposes, not for your good. Two important distinctions must be made: the difference between punishment and discipline, and the difference between your earthly guardians and your heavenly Father.
Think about this: Discipline is motivated by love; punishment is the result of fury. Discipline is what is best for the child or person, while punishment is a reliever of parental poison. We must also grasp our heavenly Father's character.
Look how incredibly different it is from that of vengeful, insecure child abusers. Our heavenly Father disciplines us but does not inflict pain maliciously nor grieve our hearts as does the abusive guardian. Our heavenly Father compassion and mercy are constantly with us. He has our best interest forever in His heart. Lord, think you for loving me enough to discipline me. Teach me to discipline rather than punish.
Ask the Spirit to search your heart and reveal any areas of unconfessed sin. Acknowledge these to the Lord and thank Him for His forgiveness.
Never Rest Ministries
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