October 23 — "When God’s Chisel Hurts"

Today's Reading: Hebrews 12

Let’s be honest—when God disciplines His children, it rarely feels like a warm hug. Hebrews 12:5–6 reminds us, “The Lord disciplines the one He loves.” Comforting words... until you’re smack in the middle of it, wondering if love always feels this intense.

Discipline can show up as slammed doors, prayers that remain unanswered, relationships unraveling, finances evaporating, or a conviction so heavy we can’t shake it. It stings. It confuses. But behind every uncomfortable nudge is the unmistakable signature of a loving Father who refuses to let His children drift into danger.

Picture a sculptor chisels away at marble. Each strike may seem harsh to the stone, but it’s the only way a masterpiece is born. Likewise, God’s chiseling moments—those seasons of divine correction—are chiseling us into something breathtaking.

The Greek word for disciplines (“paideia”) in this verse means “training” or “child-rearing.” In the first-century world, discipline was purposeful instruction. Just like a parent who lovingly teaches through both encouragement and consequences, God uses His Word, His Spirit, and yes, even painful circumstances to steer our hearts back to truth. His goal isn’t to shame us—it’s to purify us. He’s stripping away the attitudes, habits, and desires that keep us from walking closely with Him.

So what does that look like today? It might be that gnawing conviction after snapping at someone, and the Spirit gently nudges, “Make it right.” Or the loss of a job that exposes how deeply your identity was tied to success. Maybe it’s a season of silence where God feels distant—but in that quiet, He’s teaching you to trust beyond feelings. Sometimes His correction comes through people who speak truth that slices through pride, or through failure that forces humility. These moments? They’re spiritual surgery—sharp, precise, and absolutely necessary.

Think of Peter after denying Jesus. His failure shattered him—but it also remade him. Jesus’ beachside confrontation (“Do you love Me?”) wasn’t a rebuke—it was a rescue. Peter’s tears were real, but so was his transformation.

The Lord’s discipline rarely feels enjoyable. Verse 11 tells us, “All discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.” As distressing as it may feel, don’t despise it—discern it. Ask, “Lord, what are You correcting in me?” Surrender to the process. Surrender to Him. Let His correction deepen your dependence and draw you closer to His heart.

May the Lord give you ears tender enough to hear His correction, courage bold enough to receive it with gratitude, and grace wide enough to see every hardship as proof—you are His beloved child.