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Break A Leg!

Punishment vs. Discipleship

Last week, the headmaster at my son’s school held a meeting for the parents. One of the topics was the school’s approach to student problems, such as disrespect, not turning in homework, and other high school misbehaviors. He explained that the school had changed its overall philosophy from one of punishment to discipleship. They aren’t interested in simply modifying behavior, but in capturing the heart of the student. Their goal is to develop students into Christ-centered servant leaders, not merely temporary conformers who don’t want to get in trouble.

I love this approach because it is God’s approach to us. It took me a long time to learn and accept this, but once I did, it set me free. God doesn’t have a demerit system. There is no chair facing the corner where I have to sit when I’ve failed. I don’t have to write, “I will not lie,” 50 times. God does not punish His children. His wrath is for unbelievers, not us.

Love Relationship

God built in natural consequences for sin that we experience, and He does discipline us, but that’s not the same thing as punishment. His goal for us is not behavior, but a love relationship. He wants us close! When we wander away, He does what it takes to bring us back. He comes alongside, woos us, gets our attention, draws us with loving kindness, and nurtures our hearts. He goes to great lengths to teach and train us. He brings people into our lives, exposes us to truth, and fills us with His Spirit to guide us. His love and pursuit are relentless! 

The Broken Leg

When a lamb keeps wandering away from the shepherd, he will eventually break one of its legs. The shepherd takes no delight in causing pain to the lamb, but he knows it is the best way to protect it and get it to thrive. While the leg is broken, the shepherd carries the lamb until it heals. That time together bonds the lamb to its shepherd and it never wanders away again. Not because it’s afraid, but because it loves and trusts its shepherd.

God extends such incredible mercy and grace toward us. Undeserved. Unfathomable. Neverending.

What do we extend to others?

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  • February 05, 2012
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Comments

Jarrod
On 02/06/2012

I would wish that all kids in school would be nurtured rather than kicked. Thinking of how little we see the first, and how often the second, perhaps all of us who went through school would be better citizens had we had such examples.

Lyn
On 02/06/2012

Jarrod, good point. Approaching life and other people God’s way always leads to better results.

Diane Yuhas
On 02/06/2012

LOVE, love this!  What a difference between our ways and the Lord’s. All too often we forget this incredibly important distinction.

Jennifer White
On 02/06/2012

Thanks for this wonderful reminder friend!


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