The Bible says, "Whom the Lord loves He corrects, just as a father the son in whom he delights." (Proverbs 3:12)

None of us like to be corrected. From cradle to the grave, we hesitate when we are forced to examine our actions and attitudes.

Now follow me. God is my father. He is my parent. He is responsible for my well being.

Sometimes I choose to do stupid stuff. Sometimes I make a wrong choice.

God says, "no, George, that's not the way to go."

I keep doing it.

God says, "George, since you didn't learn the last time, I am going to have to discipline you."

That's the "bad" news.

The "good" news is that he disciplines me for my good, and that he never gives me more than I can handle.

God doesn't take a belt and begin to wail on me out of a burst of anger. He doesn't call me bad names and tell me what a waste I am of a human being.

He doesn't compare me with others, "why can't you be like so and so."

He loves me. He accepts me. He wants the best for me.

Ed Young writes, "There is a difference between hurt and harm. As parents, we know that discipline hurts. And, sometimes, when we have to set boundaries with our children or say no to a particular activity that they really want to do, it hurts their feelings. In the long run, though, we know that this kind of tough love does not harm our children. Rather, it makes them stronger and more disciplined as they grow up.

God does the same with us. Sometimes, God has to correct us in ways that hurt for a time but, in the long run, make us spiritually stronger. If we, through our maturity and experience, know what's best for our children, how much more does God, in His infinite wisdom, know what's best for us. Instead of complaining, thank God for loving you enough to correct you when you need it."

Good stuff