I have recently been going through a period of testing. I say that because I feel as if, God no longer treats me like a baby (in Christ), but as a maturing youngster. There comes a point when a child has to grow up right? You can't keep telling them the same things and they refuse to change. Any good parent who sees their child constantly disobeying them knows exactly what to do to discipline them. The discipline is a sort of, last resort and a prayer that this child will change. Discipline is to protect the child from failure.
However, it also takes a wise child to connect the dots. No, the presence of the belt does not indicate that the parent hates you. It is quite the opposite. The dots we need to connect are simple - wherever there is discipline there is a point the parent is trying to get across. If you listen to the parent, you will notice that they have been making it very clear what they have been trying to say. You are grown now, so tantrums won't do it. In fact, you just look silly throwing a tantrum and you know it. All it takes is obedience, and the belt will be lowered.
Oh, what a good Father God is! For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. (Heb 12:6) I think what we need to do is just listen to what He is saying and obey. He will never give you more than you can bear, so if He is giving you it, you can bear it. With every discipline comes sacrifice, because it comes to mold you from what you are accustomed to into what you are destined to be. So don't fight the belt. Allow it, listen and change. Then your eyes will be opened to see the great love that leather can bring.
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