LOVE THAT CHASTISES part 5

As we explore further some biblical examples of God's chastisement.

In part 4, we discussed the believer's war, with particular reference to the works of the flesh. We noted that God is not happy whenever His children indulge in works of the flesh.

Let us now consider an example of a man in the bible who was chastised by God. Considered as one after God's own heart, King David exhibited the full carnality of a man, ranging from one end of the spectrum...murder, to the other end...adultery! Read 2Sam 11&12 for detailed study of this topic. Entrenched in sin, King David was quick to condemn others when he was confronted by prophet Nathan.

Nevertheless, God would not allow him to perish nor would He allow anything to pluck him out of His hands.

(John10:27-28). The timely visit of the prophet Nathan was to abrogate the servitude to sin that would otherwise have engulfed him. The chastisement from God was to take the form of self conviction, retribution, severe penalties and various other forms of reprove. A clear indication that God is a just God who would not condone murder or indeed take murder lightly. Indeed, from that moment, David's life was interrupted and the sword never departed from his home.

However, his salvation was guaranteed. The exceptional way in which David touched the heart of God is a lesson to be learnt by every believer. The key to his intimacy with God was his quick repentance. King David was not only quick to repent, he was also a great worshipper and he moved the sympathetic hand of God.

This ultimately guided him along the paths of righteousness. Understand that quick repentance is the key to moving God's sympathetic hands (Psalm 51:17). As a child of God, the moment you are out of line with God, do not waste any time in your repentance. Seek after His face in order to avoid His chastisement. Endeavour to shun every work of the flesh and walk in the pathway of righteousness.

May I ask you to please pray that children of God will seek to obey God. Pray that they will walk in Spirit and in Truth.

'THERE IS THEREFORE NOW NO CONDEMNATION TO THEM WHICH ARE IN CHRIST JESUS, WHO WALK NOT AFTER THE FLESH, BUT AFTER THE SPIRIT' Rom1:8. God bless you all.

From, Pastor Tina(Jewels of God ministries U.K)