Understanding the Chastening of God

It is important to understand the chastening of the Lord and turn from evil ways and divine displeasure. Lack of understanding can lead to hardening of heart and self-destruction. It is important to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit for He speaks to us today and wants us to walk with Him in the light of God, in the Truth.

When we err and are hardened towards sin, God chastens us in order to correct us and lead us in the truth.

Why Does He Chasten

-Because He loves us and deals with us as His sons.
-It is meant for construction and not for destruction. 2Cor.13:10
-Rev.3:19; Heb.12:6 - The Lord chastens whom He loves.
-Heb.12:7 - The Lord chastens His sons.

Ways of Chastening

-Rod and Rebuke (Proverbs 29:15)

Rebuke
-Through His servants (Psalm 141:5; 1Tim.5:20; 2Tim.4:2; Tit.1:13; 2:15)
-Through His Word (2Tim.3:16)

Rod
External:
-With the rod of men and with the blows of the sons of men (2 Samuel 7:14; Hos.10:10)
-Sword, Famine, Pestilence (national) (2 Sam. 24:13; 2Ch. 20:9; Jer. 11:22; 14:12,13; 15:2; 21:9; 24:10; 27:8,13; 29:17,18; 32:36; 34:17; 38:2; 42:17,22; 44:13; Eze. 6:11,12; 12:16)
-Infirmity, Sickness (1Cor.11:30, 32; James 5:14-16)

Internal:
-Inner agony and sensing the displeasure of God and God's silence towards our prayers (guilt, lack of peace, etc) (Psalm 6:1-3, 6; 38:1ff.; Eph.4:30; 1Pet.3:7)

Our Response to Chastening

-Repent from our sins
-Humble ourselves
-Turn completely to God
-Surrender to His will
-Obey what He commands