DO YOU EXPERIENCE GOD’S DISCIPLINE?
Heb 12:6-8 (KJV)
6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.
7 If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?
8 But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.
7 If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?
8 But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.
Sin is always serious because God is always just and holy. The bible makes it crystal clear: His children will be chastened (disciplined). If we are without any discipline, then we are called illegitimate. One of the ‘birthmarks’ of being born again is God will chastise us for sin. If we can willfully practice daily sin and not experience any conviction or discipline…there is a very serious problem. Some people may call themselves ‘Christians’ but daily curse, drink, harbor lust, hatred and casually mock and blaspheme the holiness of God. Jesus Christ came to save sinners from an eternal, conscious torment of Hell. Don’t ever water down God’s truth. Do you experience conviction and discipline for sin today? God wants to grow us often through difficult places. Discipline is never fun but afterward it produces fruit of righteousness to those we are exercised by it! (Heb.12:11) We are either born again or we are lost forever. Make your calling and election sure! Examine yourself to see if you are in the faith. (2 Cor 13:5) Some of the most haunting verses in the bible are the very words of Jesus Christ on judgment day:
Matt 7:21-23 (KJV)21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.