We often view God as a kind and loving entity that is focused upon keeping us happy. It seems to give us a cozy feeling and allows us to place him in a neat little portion of our life. Unfortunately, it is not our world in which he exists. Rather, we are his children in His world.
As with our children, we are loved beyond our wildest imagination. We know that our children will not survive the dangers of life without enforced boundaries. If they disobey us or the laws of society there is a price of punishment that must be exercised. Do we punish our children because we hate them? No! Rather, because we care so much for their well-being that we must enforce the standards of safety and societal relationships.
Likewise, God knows that we can not survive without his boundaries. Why, then, do we complain when God corrects us for our wrong doing? Is He not expressing his endless love for us in protecting us from our own sinful nature? Would we not be frightened if he didn't care and allowed us to ruin our hope of eternal salvation?
As our sons have matured, nothing is more gratifying than to hear my son acknowledge my cautions with appreciation. So should we thank the Lord for his corrections! Rejoice in knowing that you are so loved by our Lord and Savior that he is willing to punish you for your wrong-doing.
