Hebrews 12:5-7

Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. § The exhortation … speaks to you as to sons: “My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord, nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him.” § Now no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful;...

I know, O Lord, that Your judgments are right, and that in faithfulness You have afflicted me. § O Lord, You are our Father; we are the clay, and You our potter; and all we are the work of Your hand. § It is the Lord. Let Him do what seems good to Him. § Righteous are You, O Lord, when I plead with You; yet let me talk with You about Your judgments.He will sit as a refiner and a purifier of silver. § Whom the Lord loves He chastens, and scourges every son whom He receives. § It is...

You shall remember that the Lord your God led you all the way these forty years in the wilderness, to humble you and test you, to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep His commandments or not.“When I passed by you again and looked upon you, indeed your time was the time of love. Yes, I swore an oath to you and entered into a covenant with you, and you became Mine,” says the Lord God. § Whom the Lord loves He chastens.Beloved, do not think it strange concerning...

My son, do not think lightly of the Lord's discipline, and do not faint when he corrects you" (Heb. 12:6, Wey.).

Most of us sought to avoid our natural father's discipline, when he sought to administer it. And most of us seek to avoid our heavenly Father's discipline, until we finally learn that "He does it for our certain good, in order...

The Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy" (James 5:11).

There are two hearts that we learn in the process of suffering: our own sinful heart, and our Father's loving heart.

"There is a Divine mystery in suffering, a strange and supernatural power in it, which has never been fathomed by human reason. There never has been known great saintliness of soul which...