Cultivating a Life Without Judgment: Day 4

     Day 4: Receiving Judgment From God

Christians within our culture grow up with many different thoughts and teachings about God. But one of the things in which all denominations agree — whether Methodists, Baptists, Lutherans, Presbyterians, Catholics or others — is that the God of the Bible is a righteous God and a just God (See Psalm 89:14). As such, He will hold us accountable in this life, and in the next, for our decisions. How can we receive accountability and discipline from God in a way that will ultimately lead to growth? 

First, it’s essential to understand that God doesn’t look at our poor decisions in life and say, “What in the world is wrong with you?” Remember, our God is a God of GRACE first, and we must see Him in this light. So when we make a poor decision, God isn’t saying, “I’ll love you when you clean up this mess,” He’s saying, “I love you so much I’m going to help you clean up this mess.” He’s not a God observing from far away, but is right next to us, deep in the muck and mire with us. 

Second, it’s just as important to understand that God wants to see us grow. In the same way a parent wants to see their child do well in life, God is seeking to accomplish the same within our lives.

As you read today, consider this: How well do you receive judgment or discipline from God? 

READING:

     Deuteronomy 8:5-6; Job 5:17-18; Hebrews 12:5-9

How well do you receive judgment or discipline from God? 

Be honest: Do you normally think of God as saying, “I’ll love you more when you clean up this mess,” or a God who says, “I love you so much I’m going to help you clean up this mess?” Does this help you to see or think about the nature and character of God any differently? 

God is inviting you to change the way you see yourself. How will you think differently about yourself this week?

PRAYER:

Heavenly Father, once again, today’s reading has helped me to see You as a God of GRACE first, and not as a God of RULES. Thank you for Your unmerited favor. Thank You for loving me in ways in which nobody else can. Thank You for being with me, and helping me out of the muck. And thank You for disciplining me in order to help me grow. 

Today, may I continue to better reflect and represent the essence of who You are (a God of GRACE) to all I interact with. I pray all of this in Jesus’ name. Amen.