Let’s see more instances of God’s discipline in the Scriptures.
- Nebuchadnezzar’s Humbling
King Nebuchadnezzar was driven from his throne and lived like an animal for seven seasons because of his pride (Daniel 4:28-37).
- Paul’s Thorn in the Flesh
Paul was given a “thorn in the flesh” to prevent pride, teaching him dependence on God’s grace (2 Corinthians 12:7-9)
- Moses’ Discipline
Moses was disciplined by God because he disobeyed God’s instruction and struck the rock instead of speaking to it, as commanded (Numbers 20:7-12).
Because of this disobedience, God declared that Moses would not enter the Promised Land with the Israelites. God said, “Because you did not trust in me enough to honor me as holy in the sight of the Israelites, you will not bring this community into the land I give them.” (Numbers 20:12)
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Later, Moses pleaded with God to change His decision, but God firmly told him not to speak of it again (Deuteronomy 3:23-27). Moses was only allowed to see the Promised Land from Mount Nebo but was not permitted to enter it. He died on the mountain, and God Himself buried him (Deuteronomy 34:1-7)
What do you see from the scenarios above? Do you see that God did not only discipline his enemies or wicked, unrighteous people? He also disciplined His beloved people, Israel, including Moses and Paul. In fact, the book of Judges is full of accounts of the Lord disciplining His people when they erred by forsaking Him and following other gods.
Next time, we will look at a classic example of the discipline of one God loved greatly, and the principles He uses for us also.
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