Let’s move on to the next degree of discipline God uses to help us let go of sin, so that we can bear fruit for His Glory and our own good. Remember Mr Wilkinson is using Hebrews 12:5-6 NKJV here to define these different stages.
Chastening is the next step God will bring into our lives if we are not listening to His rebuke. And the way I see it, while rebuking touches our spirit only, chastening affects our soul, as well as our spirit. We will feel emotional anxiety or depression. This level of intensity is more than the first degree, but still medium in severity. It is like grabbing us by the arm so we will pay attention to what we are doing. Mr Wilkinson explains, “What used to bring you joy now doesn’t. Pressures increase at work, at home, in your health or finances.” (p46) Where you used to be annoyed, now you feel tangible anguish because serious problems are beginning to surface. Here we will feel like there is a definite conflict within that we must address…yet if we continue to choose to ignore it, in love, God will again up the ante.
2023’s Got A Minute? Book Club
January: The First & Best Book Ever: The Bible
February: Love Is In the Air: “The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts” by Gary Chapman
March: Spring Growth: “Secrets of the Vine” by Bruce Wilkinson
<>< Peace, Diane
