Whoever heeds discipline shows the way to life, but whoever ignores correction leads others astray. Proverbs 10:17, NIV

No one likes discipline. But it is essential to living a healthy life. Discipline only works when it has lasting effects and a person applies what they have learned to their lives. When someone tries to resist the lessons they are being taught, they end up making their lives more difficult and discipline becomes ineffective.

God uses discipline to make us better people and to help us to grow in our relationships with Him. He knows that when we live morally healthy lives, we will get more out of life and find supernatural peace. Our lives can also be living examples for others. Our Creator and loving Father knows what is best for us. When He disciplines us, it’s because He loves us and wants us to fulfill the plans He has for us. Our lives are living testimonies to honor the God we serve.

Likewise, as teachers, we have an obligation to discipline our students to help them to become responsible young adults. Students thrive when they have order in their lives and know that they have accountability for their actions. A classroom becomes a safe place for children when there is consistency and expectations.

Dear God, help us to learn from our mistakes and do our best to not repeat them. Thank you for loving us so much that You discipline us and lead us down the right paths so that we can live out the plans You have for us. Thank you for desiring to give us hope and a bright future. Amen.

Copyright Laurie Dahle.

Laurie is a member and a physical therapist who works in a Missouri public school district. She also writes her own daily devotionals. If you are interested in receiving them, you may contact her at faithexercisediet@gmail.com.