asbc seek devotionals 2025 2 - Flipbook - Page 34
Day 15: Correction
DEVOTIONAL JOURNAL | ALFRED STREET BAPTIST CHURCH
MIN. OTIS BYRD, JR.
“My child, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord or lose heart when you are punished by him, for
the Lord disciplines those whom he loves and chastises every child whom he accepts.”
– Hebrews 12:5b-6 NRSVUE
I grew up in what some would call an “old-fashioned” home, where traditions and rituals
shaped my childhood. We attended church multiple times a week, shared family meals at
the table, and never left each other’s presence or ended a call without saying, “I love you.”
These expressions of love were constant reminders of my parents’ deep affection for me.
Their love was felt in warm embraces and the occasional treat, but also in the discipline
they provided. While discipline was not as enjoyable as their affection, it was just as
essential.
As I matured, I understood that both love and discipline are vital to growth. The rules
and consequences, though difficult, were protective and corrective, guiding me toward
becoming a responsible adult. This same dynamic exists in our relationship with the
Creator. As God’s children, we experience the joy of perfect love—Divine embrace, Divine
provision, and Divine blessings. Yet, we must also accept Divine discipline.
God’s love is perfect and encompasses both kindness and correction. The Bible says,
“The Lord disciplines the one he loves” (Hebrews 12:6). Just as a human parent lovingly
corrects their child, our Heavenly Parent refines us through discipline, shaping us into
the people God created us to be. Embrace both the joy and the correction of God’s love—
it’s all part of the Divine plan to protect, guide, and grow us in faith.
JOURNAL
REFLECTIONS
Are we guilty of rejecting God’s correction
while embracing God’s blessings?
34
Have you ever mistaken the punitive activity
of God to be destructive when it was
actually corrective?
PRAYER
Lord, make it well with us, as you refine and reshape us
in the full expression of your love. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
