Punishment & Brokenness

I remember some of the punishments I received as a child. My parents did not “spare the rod” or “spoil their child”. I remember comparing my punishment to that of my other siblings. I remember being grounded. I remember having to do extra chores or work around the house. I never thought punishment at the time was fun. In fact I always hated punishment. I’m not sure I could find anyone who thought punishment was loads of fun. The people of Israel and Judah were once God’s chosen people. They were being punished for their sin and it was very painful. Check this out…

5 Those who once ate delicacies

    are destitute in the streets.

Those brought up in royal purple

    now lie on ash heaps.

16 The Lord himself has scattered them;

    he no longer watches over them.

The priests are shown no honor,

    the elders no favor.

22 Your punishment will end, Daughter Zion;

    he will not prolong your exile.

But he will punish your sin, Daughter Edom,

    and expose your wickedness. (Lamentations 4:5,16,22 NIV)

As a grown adult, I’ve finally learned the value of punishment. I think “discipline” is a more positive and pro-active word than “punishment”. If I’m on the receiving end of discipline or punishment, it’s not fun. I’ve learned as a parent, that being on the end of the person handing down the discipline or punishment is not fun either. I can imagine that it hurt God’s heart to discipline His people.

I think that often the goal of punishment or discipline is brokenness. I don’t think the Lord’s punishment is intended to crush my spirit. I do think He is trying to break my will. I believe He is shaping my character. I also believe that through discipline and punishment, I’m humbled. Through discipline, I learn His way is the best way.

I want to learn the lessons from the Lord through brokenness and humility. I know that the Lord loves me and wants what is best. I must learn to trust Him completely through the pain of punishment until brokenness arrives.

Pressing On!

Dwayne