No one likes to be disciplined or corrected. Our pride jumps up to defend ourselves.

But did you know God always disciplines those He loves? Yes, discipline is a sign of love…whether it’s from our parents, or from God.

Let’s look at several translations of this great verse:

“As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent.” Revelation 3:19 New King James Version

“I correct and discipline everyone I love. So be diligent and turn from your indifference.” Revelation 3:19 New Living Translation

“Those whom I [dearly and tenderly] love, I rebuke and discipline [showing them their faults and instructing them]; so be enthusiastic and repent [change your inner self—your old way of thinking, your sinful behavior—seek God’s will].” Revelation 3:19 Amplified Version

“The people I love, I call to account—prod and correct and guide so that they’ll live at their best. Up on your feet, then! About face! Run after God!” Revelation 3:19 Message Version

Get the picture? God is not an impersonal, docile, or ambivalent Creator. No, rather He is actively pursuing and protecting His investment of Jesus in us. He craves relationship with His children. But He protects us with equal zeal by correcting us when we are wrong or in danger.

Let’s embrace His discipline. Let’s thank God for His loving ways! Without Him, our lives would self-implode!

But with Him, we are His work of art!