At the time. "It makes us sad, because of the pain it brings." Later, however. "Those who have been disciplined, trained, matured, prepared by such punishment reap the peaceful reward!" Compare Psalms 119:67; Psalms 119:71; Psalms 119:75; Job 42:2-3; Romans 8:28; Romans 8:37. [For many years I have used the expression: God spanks his children. This is certainly the idea in these verses. But it is not wrath!!! I imagine God saying, something like this: "Hove you! Everything I have is yours! I have amazing mercy! I am not angry with you. When I spank you, it is because I love you! I want you to grow spiritually! I want you to be strong and healthy! I am giving you blessings in each spanking, so that you will be a blessing to others! The whole world is programmed learning for you, because I want you to live with me forever! Open yourself to me and let me come in and heal you and forgive you. See, I am running to meet you! Listen! I stand at the door and knock! Open yourself to me! I love you! I love you!" See Luke 15:11-32 and notes.]

Continues after advertising
Continues after advertising

Old Testament