Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid. Proverbs 12:1
He who listens to a life-giving rebuke will be at home among the wise. Proverbs 15:31
Heavenly Father, I’ll never tire of thanking you for the joy of calling you Father—Abba, Abba, Father. There’s no greater privilege; there’s no safer refuge; there’s no better address than to call your heart my home.
Once I was separate from Christ; excluded from citizenship in the true Israel; a foreigner to your promise-filled covenants; without hope and without you in the world. But through the work of Jesus, you brought me near—you made me one of your beloved children. (Ephesians 2:12-13). I worship, praise and adore you, for such a rich and firm standing in grace.
It’s only because you love us as your children that you discipline us as you do (Hebrews 12:4-11). All of your rebukes are “life-giving”. None of them are meant to be guilt-inducing, shame-producing or contempt-fueling. You humble your children, you don’t humiliate us. You’re firm, but never harsh. You have my eternal glorification in view, but too often, I’m only thinking about my instant gratification.
On the cross, Jesus exhausted the punishment we deserve. Now you delight in us, even when you confront our immaturity and irresponsibility. That’s why I’m a foolish man to play dodge-ball with the convicting work of your Holy Spirit. You only purpose our freedom through the gospel. I’m a simpleton and stupid when I get defensive and try to make excuses for myself. What’s there to defend?
Indeed, “stupid” has nothing to do with my IQ, my SAT score, my GPA from various schools. “Stupid” is what we are when we hate correction, despise your discipline, or run from your admonitions.
I want to be at home among the wise, Father, so whether you speak to me from your Word by the voice of your Spirit or even through my spouse, colleagues, children, or friends, I’ll trust you for a humble heart and submissive spirit. By the grace, truth and power of the gospel, make me a little less stupid. So very Amen, I pray, in Jesus’ life-giving name.
