Proverbs 15:10 Stern discipline awaits him who leaves the path;
he who hates correction will die.

This is the other side of “The Lord disciplines those He loves.” (Proverbs 3:12) Discipline must be received for it to be effective. When we stubbornly refuse the path God has laid out for us, there is no end to the trouble we get ourselves into, all the way to death. God is no sadist, and we are not to be masochistic. God does not enjoy punishing us, but the simple fact of the matter is that actions have consequences, and the consequences of leaving God’s path are neither pretty nor pleasant. This is all wrapped up in the matter of free will. If we were not genuinely free to choose, we would have no responsibility. If our actions did not have consequences, there would be no meaning to obedience. This fundamental truth is something countless legions of people have tried to deny, but their denial hasn’t changed it the least bit. This is why discipleship is the most logical choice, because discipleship means actively seeking God’s way in humble obedience. The Bible is filled with passages that tell us how good things are for those who are fully obedient to God (eg. Romans 6:8) That’s why discipleship is a choice, day by day and step by step.

I have tasted the consequences of disobedience, and they aren’t fun. By God’s amazing grace I have been kept from going completely off the deep end, but I can take no credit for that. This verse actually points directly to the cross of Christ, because Jesus took on Himself the severe punishment, all the way to death, that we deserve. I’ve got to remember that and never forget it for even a moment. My job in doing the work of an evangelist (2 Timothy 4:5) is to help people understand the truth of this verse, and then give them the good news that Jesus took their punishment on Himself. I can’t open people’s eyes by my own wisdom or strength, but I can be available to the Holy Spirit for Him to use me to that end. I cannot communicate the grace of God without remembering that I need it as much as anyone else.

Father, thank You for this reminder. Help me rejoice in Your grace at all times, communicating it in the power of Your Spirit, so that many will see and receive Your light and turn to Your path, for their salvation and Your glory. Thank You. Hallelujah!