Wisdom Accepts Discipline

Discipline is a cousin of wisdom. A disciplined way of living is the outcome of the correct application of godly wisdom. Discipline teaches us humility, so that we learn to rely on God. The wisdom of this world resents discipline, because it works against the joy of the moment. Godly wisdom accepts discipline gladly, looking to the fruit of joy and peace it will produce in our lives.

Solomon spoke about discipline and wisdom: “My son, do not despise the LORD's discipline and do not resent his rebuke, because the LORD disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.” (Prov 3:11-18)

“Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid.” (Prov 12:1)

“A fool spurns his father's discipline, but whoever heeds correction shows prudence.” (Prov 15:5)

“He who ignores discipline despises himself, but whoever heeds correction gains understanding. The fear of the LORD teaches a man wisdom, and humility comes before honor.” (Prov 15:32-33)

“Buy the truth and do not sell it; get wisdom, discipline and understanding.” (Prov 23:23, NIV)

The writer of Hebrews said about discipline, “And you have forgotten that word of encouragement that addresses you as sons: ‘My son, do not make light of the Lord's discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son.’" (Heb 12:4-6)

“Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father? If you are not disciplined (and everyone undergoes discipline), then you are illegitimate children and not true sons. Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of our spirits and live! Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.” (Heb 12:7-11, NIV)

God ordained civil authority, and the Bible teaches God’s people to respect civil authority. Wisdom demands respect for the laws of the nation where we live, “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. For he is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience.” (Rom 13:1-5, NIV)

Lack of disciplined lives has become a curse to our nation. The pursuit of temporary pleasure rules the lives of many. People destroy their usefulness by disregarding laws intended to protect their lives. Every civil law has some reason for existence.

However, God’s law always takes precedent. If there is a law that forbids us to preach the gospel, and God has commanded us to preach the gospel, then wisdom requires us to preach the gospel. But laws that do not go against God’s law should be respected. A disciplined life takes into account the laws of the land, and respects them as being of value for protecting life and liberty. If we are wise, we will respect civil law.

Recently a young man asked me what I though about smoking pot, if it is wrong. “It is against the law,” I responded. He seemed surprised that what is lawful should be considered as a measure of what is good. If we are wise, we will respect authority and live disciplined lives.