adversity

The Discipline of the Lord

The Discipline of the Lord

Discipline is often a difficult word to hear. We associate it with punishment, correction, and hardship.

However, the Bible teaches us that God’s discipline is a loving and necessary part of our spiritual growth.

 No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.

Hebrews 12:11

The Purpose of Discipline

In Hebrews 12:11, we learn that discipline is meant to produce a harvest of righteousness and peace.

It’s not about punishment for punishment’s sake; it’s about training us to become more like Christ.

  • Removing Sin: Discipline can help us identify and remove sinful habits or attitudes that are hindering our spiritual growth.
  • Developing Character: Trials and hardships can help us develop qualities like patience, perseverance, and humility.
  • Deepening Our Relationship with God: When we go through difficult times, we can learn to rely more on God and trust in His love.

The Painful Process

It’s important to remember that discipline is often painful. It can be difficult to endure trials and hardships.

But we must trust that God knows what is best for us and that His discipline is ultimately a loving act.

Reward of Righteousness and Peace

The reward for embracing God’s discipline is a harvest of righteousness and peace.

When we persevere through trials, we are strengthened in our faith and become more like Christ.

While discipline may be painful in the moment, it is a necessary part of our spiritual growth.

By trusting in God and persevering through trials, you can experience the harvest of righteousness and peace that He promises.

Upside Down: 15 Week Bible Study

 You Have Been Seated with Christ in the Heavenly Realms

God’s great hope for us is not simply the forgiveness of sins and a place in heaven when we die; but rather, He wants us totally restored, in heart, mind and soul . . . NOW!

As we enter into this amazing adventure with God, we soon recognize that we are a part of something tremendous, something that is beyond our earthy perspective, and we are transported into the heavens with Christ; we live, breathe, and find our being in Him!

This Bible study will help you rediscover how it all began, what happened in the Garden of Eden, who is the Devil really, and what is he up to today.

  • Head into the heavenly realms and discover profound truths concerning your relationship with God, and His incredible plan for you.
  • Search your heart, preparing for a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. In this study, you will enter into God’s armory, suiting up with the whole armor of God.
  • Discover the Keys to the Kingdom given to you, and learn what they unlock; discovering your true nature in Christ, the authority given, the Sword of the Spirit, the covering armor, and the mission ahead, you will truly learn to pray . . . Upside Down!

Get your copy Today – Pray Upside Down

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Discipline
No Escape from the Echo Chamber

No Escape from the Echo Chamber

Imagine being hated for something you deeply believe in.

John 15:20 offers a sobering truth from Jesus to his disciples:

“Remember the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they kept my word, they will also keep yours.”

John 15:20

Why the Warning?

Jesus isn’t trying to scare his disciples. He’s preparing them for the reality of following Him.

Throughout history, Christians have faced persecution for their beliefs. Jesus, Himself, wasn’t exempt.

Facing Rejection with Courage

John 15:20 offers two important points:

  • Shared Experience: Knowing you’re not alone in facing opposition can be a source of strength. Jesus, the ultimate role model, experienced persecution too.
  • Testing Our Faith: Persecution can be a test of our faith. How will we respond when following Christ becomes difficult?

Finding Comfort in the Midst of Suffering

John 15:20 doesn’t promise a trouble-free life, but it does offer comfort:

  • God Understands: He knows what it’s like to be rejected and persecuted.
  • God is with You: Even in the face of opposition, you are not alone. God is always with you.
  • Purpose in Suffering: Sometimes, persecution can be a platform to share your faith and glorify God.

How to Prepare for Persecution

  • Live a Life Above Reproach: Let your actions and character reflect your faith in a way that makes criticism difficult.
  • Be Ready to Explain Your Faith: Be able to articulate your beliefs clearly and confidently.
  • Find Strength in Community: Surround yourself with fellow believers who can offer support and encouragement.

John 15:20 reminds us that following Christ may not always be easy.

By drawing strength from Him and the Christian community, you can face persecution with courage and find purpose even in suffering.

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration
Overcoming the Dragon

Overcoming the Dragon

Enraged Enemy

“Then the dragon was enraged at the woman and went off to wage war against the rest of her offspring—those who keep God’s commands and hold fast their testimony about Jesus.”Revelation 12:17 (NIV)

In this verse, we see the ferocity of the enemy’s rage against those who follow Christ.

The dragon, a symbol of Satan and his forces, is described as enraged, waging war against believers who remain faithful to God’s commands and testify to the truth of Jesus.

Perseverance of the Faithful

Despite the intensity of the enemy’s assault, this verse reminds us that there are those who “keep God’s commands and hold fast their testimony about Jesus.”

These are believers who persevere, standing firm in their faith and obedience, even in the face of adversity and opposition.

Spiritual Battle

This passage is a stark reminder that as followers of Christ, we are engaged in a spiritual battle against forces that seek to undermine our faith and cause us to stumble.

The enemy is relentless in his attacks, using fear, temptation, and persecution to try to wear us down and turn us away from God.

Victorious Outcome

Yet, even as we recognize the reality of this battle, we can take heart in the knowledge that the ultimate victory belongs to Christ.

He has already triumphed over the dragon, and through His power and strength, we too can overcome the enemy’s assaults. As we persevere in faith and obedience, holding fast to our testimony of Jesus, we will share in His victory.

Stand firm, with unwavering faith and courage, knowing that your perseverance will not be in vain. For the one who overcomes will inherit eternal life and a place in the Kingdom of God.




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Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration