August 14

Child Chastisement Not Forever

Because of this, I will humble David’s descendants—but not forever.’ — 1 Kgs 11:39 BSB

In the family of grace, there is discipline, and sometimes that discipline is painful enough to remind us how bitter and harmful sin can be. Solomon, led astray by his foreign wives, had set up other gods and provoked the Lord to anger. As a result, ten of the twelve tribes were taken from his descendants, establishing a rival kingdom. This was a severe chastening from the Lord upon the house of David, a consequence of unholy conduct. The Lord disciplines His beloved servants if they stray from obedience to His laws. Perhaps, even now, we are experiencing such discipline. Let us humbly cry out, "O Lord, show me why You contend with me."

Yet, how sweet is the saving phrase: "but not forever"! While the punishment of sin is eternal, the fatherly chastisement of God’s children is only for a season. Sickness, poverty, or depression may pass away once they have fulfilled their purpose. Remember, we are under grace, not law. Though the rod of discipline may sting, the sword of judgment will not strike us down. Our current trials are designed to bring us to repentance, that we may not be condemned along with the wicked.