[b]Sharp arrows!
(Thomas Watson, "The Lord's Prayer")
"Our Father in heaven." Matthew 6:9
If God is our Father, then however He treats His
children, is done in love. If He frowns; if He dips
His pen in gall, and writes bitter things; if He
disciplines--it is all done in love! "For the Lord
disciplines the one He loves, and punishes every
son whom He receives." Hebrews 12:6
A father loves his child as well when he chastises and
disciplines him--as when he settles his inheritance on
him! "Those whom I love--I rebuke and discipline."
Rev 3:19. "Afflictions are sharp arrows--but they
are shot from the hand of a loving Father!"
Correction is God's gymnasium. Correction is God's
school of character. God afflicts His children--in love!
He does it to humble and purify. Gentle correction is
as necessary as daily bread! There is love in all! God
smites--that He may save! "God disciplines us for our
good, that we may share in His holiness." Heb. 12:10