“No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. “Make level paths for your feet,” so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed.”

Hebrews 12:11-13

The idea that our struggles are God’s discipline comes from Proverbs 3:11 and 12, words that the Father gives to his children to encourage them. Discipline like this is unlikely to be pleasant, but will have a good outcome, ‘a harvest of righteousness and peace’ (v. 11). Therefore, we are to strengthen our arms and knees and, as we have noticed elsewhere in Hebrews, we are to care for others, ensuring that the paths of any lame members of the community are level and smooth, so that they are not disabled, but healed (v. 13).

CLOSING PRAYER

Lord Jesus, in all that you call me to do, I look to you to help me persevere. As you encourage me through Scripture and your presence with me, use me as an encouragement to others.

(Edited from Encounter with God)