Nougat 29

How well do we respond to correction? Consider today’s Holy Nougat

“A wise child accepts a parent’s discipline; a mocker refuses to listen to correction.” ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭13:1‬ ‭NLT‬‬

I don’t know of anyone who enjoys getting disciplined. We might see the logic behind the discipline; but that’s still not the the same as loving discipline. With God being our Creator; we can consider that the nougat applies to God also. So, when conducting our business; and God sends a Word of direction or correction; it is more expedient to simply obey. Let’s think about a few biblical examples:

Jonah (Jonah 1)

Despite receiving a clear Word, Jonah disobeyed God by intentionally going in the opposite direction. This resulted in an act of discipline, which can be easily overlooked in the bigger sequence of events. God’s discipline was a furious storm that seemed to be about destroying all inhabitants.

Jonah opted to ‘reject’ God’s discipline by asking to be thrown overboard. I am convinced that if Jonah had simply repented, the storm would have stopped just as miraculously. Ironically, God foiled his ‘suicide attempt’ by securing Jonah’s rescue through a fish.

Wise; willing; or foolish? – you tell me.

Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 4)

Nebuchadnezzar the great, Babylonian king during the exile, had ample opportunity to recognize God’s greatness. One night, he received a clear warning from the Most High God through a strange dream, which Daniel interpreted. As king of the greatest empire in his time; Nebuchadnezzar bought into the lie about his personal greatness. He then came face to face with God’s discipline. It took him several years; but Nebuchadnezzar eventually heeded God’s correction and literally came to his senses.

Wise, willing, or foolish? Hmmn

Saul-Paul (Acts 9)

A misguided young man, abounding with religious zeal; Saul of Tarsus was willing to defend his faith by murdering those who chose The Way of Christ. To give him his due; he thought he was on the right path. Until confronted by God while on a major mission en route Damascus. It’s worth noting that almost immediately Saul yielded to God’s Spirit and accepted the discipline given him.

Such was the impact of his immediate repentance and genuine humility before God that Saul received a new name (Paul) and a new ministry. Instead of seeking people of The Way; Saul-Paul led others to The Way of Christ. We are recipients of the legacy; as several of his letters are found in the Bible.

Wise, willing or foolish? – Hmmn

Whom will we emulate? Our choice also determines our status. Hmmn

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May all we seek be found in Christ