Hosea 11:1-2a, 4a
“When Israel was a child, I loved him, and out of Egypt I called my son.  But the more I called Israel, the further they went from me…I led them with cords of human kindness, with ties of love…”

John 2:14-15
“In the temple courts [Jesus] found men selling cattle, sheep and doves, and others sitting at tables exchanging money.  So he made a whip out of cords, and drove all from the temple area…”

Hebrews 12:5b-6
“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.”

Righteous Father, you hold the highest authority and we place ourselves under your command.

You have loved us like cherished children, but we are wayward and ungrateful.  We have rejected your gentle leading, but your wisdom and mercy will not allow us to wander far.

Forgive us for our crooked ways and help us to accept the unwelcome cords of discipline.  Remind our downcast hearts that your corrective striking is for our protection, coaxing us into saving obedience.

We are humbled that you gave up your precious Son Jesus to fall beneath the punishing lash in our place, that we might be bound to you forever.

Listen to ‘Heal Me for Thy Mercy’s Sake’ by Darby Hughes