Punishment & Restoration
I remember my parents telling me how much they hated punishing me. I’m pretty sure I heard that line: “this is hurting me more than it’s hurting you” and I didn’t believe a word of it. Until, I had kids of my own who needed punishment. Any parent who loves disciplining their children might just have other issues going on. I love seeing my children who are now grown, treating others with respect and honor. A couple of my sons are now Dad’s and doing the whole “discipline thing” very well. I see discipline as learning to live within certain guidelines set forth by parents, boss, authorities or the Lord. Punishment is what happens when those boundaries are breached or ignored.
When Isaiah was prophesying against Egypt, the Lord took it a step further and included restoration. Check this out…
21 The Lord will make himself known to the Egyptians. Yes, they will know the Lord and will give their sacrifices and offerings to him. They will make a vow to the Lord and will keep it. 22 The Lord will strike Egypt, and then he will bring healing. For the Egyptians will turn to the Lord, and he will listen to their pleas and heal them. (Isaiah 19:21-22 NLT)
I think that as a parent, my punishment for my children should ALWAYS include restoration. The point of punishment is growth. The point of discipline is growth and change. As parents, we are responsible for helping our children grow and become a great adult one day. If we allow children to do whatever they want, their lives will be a dismal mess. Solomon wisely reminds us of the value of discipline. Check this out….
12 You will say, “How I hated discipline!
If only I had not ignored all the warnings! (Proverbs 5:12 NLT)
Punishment and restoration are intended to teach self-control.
Punishment and restoration are intended to help us change.
Punishment and restoration are not fun, but the outcome is worth it.
I’m thankful that the Lord includes restoration as part of His plan. I don’t deserve the restoration part, but I certainly deserve punishment and discipline. I’m thankful that He restores my soul and helps me change.
Pressing On!
Dwayne