The study of Hebrews 12:5–11 on discipline has had a significant impact on me. It prompted me to dig deeper into God’s purpose for trials, sufferings, afflictions, and similar difficult experiences in our lives.
Scripture shows that all these experiences are varied expressions of God’s discipline. Discipline is far more than punishment—which was my own misconception before this study. It includes the entire range of what is involved in training a child: instruction, encouragement, correction, guidance, and loving admonishment.
Below are several Scriptures that highlight what I call the “Dividends of Discipline.” The enemy of our souls does not want us to understand the truth about God’s love—especially that even His discipline is a clear evidence of His love (Heb 12:6) and that it brings profound benefits both now and for eternity. These verses show that God’s discipline is an expression of His love, intended to correct, train, and sanctify His children for their good and His glory. Remember that divine discipline is not punishment in wrath, but correction in love. It is the Father’s way of shaping His children into the image of Christ (Romans 8:29). As Hebrews 12:6 says, “For those whom the Lord loves He disciplines.” The advantage of divine discipline is not merely behavioral change, but spiritual transformation, leading to holiness, peace, and deeper fellowship with God.
As you read the following “dividends,” ask your Teacher, the Holy Spirit, to open the eyes of your heart to behold wonderful things from God’s Word. Examine each Scripture to see whether the conclusions drawn are accurate—be a Berean (Acts 17:11–12+).
May God's Spirit richly reward your investment of time to learn this vital truth about the heart of the Father in the so often misunderstood area of discipline. In Jesus' Name. Amen
Meditating on the DIVIDENDS OF DISCIPLINE gives one an eternal perspective of trials and suffering and enables one to truly CONSIDER all trials to be all joy and to give thanks in all things.
Shows the Father's love (& Christ's love) for us
Heb 12:6, Pr 3:11-12, Rev 3:19
Happy is the man whom God reproves (= disciplines)
Job 5:17 (cp Job 42:5,12, Ja5:11)
Blessed (means fully satisfied regardless of circumstances), Relief in the season of trouble
Ps 94:12,13
Produces endurance, "perfection" (having reached the intended goal); "completion" (perfectly sound)
Jas 1:3,4, Ro 5:3-4
Be blessed and receive the crown of life
Jas 1:12
To let us know what is in our heart (humbles us and removes pride)
Dt 8:2, 2Co 12:7-10, 1Pe 5:6 (cf His "hand" of loving discipline)
Purifies our faith
Job 23:10
Helps us Share in Christ's sufferings (cf Heb 5:8)
Php 3:10, 1Pe 4:13, Ro 8:17, 1Pe 2:21
Strengthen our Prayer Life
Jas 1:5 Trials drive us to ask God for wisdom.
Increases our Compassion for Others
2Co 1:3-4
Produces greater future glory
2Co 4:17, Ro 8:18
Teaches us God's ways
Ps 119:71
Draws us closer to God
Hos 6:1, Ps 34:18
For our good in the end
Dt 8:16
Proves we are His legitimate adopted sons and therefore heirs
Heb 12:7-8, Dt 8:5
Way of life (reproofs for discipline)
Pr 6:23
Being Subject to God's discipline yields true "life", life indeed
Heb 12:9
Shows the way of life and shields from sexual temptation
Pr 6:23, 24, Ps 119:9,11
Removes foolishness from our heart
Pr 22:15 (relate to "holiness" in next entry)
Trains us so we can share God's holiness
Heb 12:10, 1Th 4:7
Peaceful fruit that is the result of a righteous life
Heb 12:11, Ps 119:67
That we may not be condemned along with the world.
1Co 11:32.
Tested proven faith results in praise & glory & honor @ Christ's return
1Pe 1:7 (compare next entry)
Produces spiritual wisdom and understanding
Pr 15:32, Pr 19:20
He who regards reproof will be honored.
Pr 13:18
That you may be wise the rest of your days
Pr 19:20
Helps us learn God's statutes
Ps 119:71
Avoidance of condemnation
1Co 11:32
One disciplined less like to go astray, more likely to keep God's Word
Ps 119:67
Shows that we love knowledge (not just bookish information but an experiential knowledge of the Living God) (see entry for Job below)
Pr 12:1
Greater revelation of God
Job 5:17, 42:5,6