Accepting God’s rebukes

This morning I was upset at my spouse for using something in the pantry that I’d planned to use for Christmas dinner. It didn’t take the Lord long to remind me that He could feel like that every time I forget to do what He plans. But I know His patience. Sigh. I often do not have it.

He tells me this; that I need to “lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and run with endurance the race that is set before me.” To do this, I must keep looking to Him who is the founder and perfecter of my faith. He endured the cross, considered the shame worthless, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. He endure all hostility for the joy set before Him and did it so I would not grow weary or fainthearted. My struggle against sin has never made me shed blood. (Hebrews 12:1–4)

It was a kind rebuke. I know He loves me and wants me to be like Him. I also know that rebuke is another evidence that I belong to Him and am a child of God. He patiently endures the sins of those who are not, but treats me as a good father treats his child and disciplines me for my good, that I may share his holiness. What is a mere staple from the pantry compared to having the patience and kindness of the Lord Jesus Christ? 

A little spanking is nothing compared to what any sin deserves. As I prayed, He reminded me that I am in a kingdom that cannot be shaken. His rebukes enable me to offer acceptable worship, with reverence and awe, for my God is a consuming fire and Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. His love and care never change. (Hebrews 13:8)

At that, I went upstairs to make my usual drink, either lemon/honey or herbal tea, and thought how much good this has done to my body. Then I read this:

Do not be led away by diverse and strange teachings, for it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace, not by foods, which have not benefited those devoted to them. (Hebrews 13:9)

I almost laughed. God’s grace is my health and energy. While He might use whatever I eat or drink to make me healthy, my heart is stronger because of God’s unconditional care and kindness. 

And He wants me to pass that along. He adds: “Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.” (Hebrews 13:16) This is another reminder: The love of God is like the love of Jesus — it involves sacrifice, giving up what I’d like to keep for myself and sharing it with others — like that item in the pantry and much more.

PRAY: Oh Lord, the God of peace who brought You from the dead, and made You the great Shepherd of the sheep by the blood of Your eternal covenant, I must rely on You to equip me with everything good that I may do Your will. Work in me whatever is pleasing in Your sight, and may You be glorified forever and ever. Amen.