Because God loves us as a Father, He is obliged to train and discipline us as His children. But it hurts Him. Being the very essence of love, He finds it hard to punish us. Believe in His love.

Over and over again He is moved with pity for His child. He has to comfort him, encourage him, show him kindness and make him happy. Even His wrath is tempered with mercy. He says to us, as to His people long ago, ‘Is Ephraim my dear son? Is he my darling child? For as often as I speak against him, I do remember him still. Therefore my heart yearns for him; I will surely have mercy on him.’ Cling to this assurance.

Jeremiah 31:20 RSV

from: http://www.kanaan.org/international/daily_readings/july.htm

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SI Moderator - Greg Gordon