Reproof and Restoration or Rebellion?

Reproof is designed to bring repentance and repentance brings restoration.

"He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding." Proverbs 15:32

According to the Strong's Concordance, Reproof by definition means - properly, to convince with solid, compelling evidence, especially to expose (prove wrong, connect).

The Word of God, through the Scriptures brings such corrections to our natural rebellion against the Almighty.

"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:"
2 Timothy 3:16

"My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD; neither be weary of his correction: For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth." Proverbs 3:11-12

Those who embrace and heed are wise, and reap restoration to the Father, yet those who reject and remain in their rebellion refuse union or reunion with the Creator. Are you spending time in the Word of God? Are you allowing Him to deal with you? Do you embrace His chiding or do you think you know better than He?

Complaining and the corrupt heart

When I find myself complaining and easily irritated (which seems pretty frequent lately), the Lord pricks my heart. Why? Because it reveals my heart isn't right with Him. 

How can we know this? 

"A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh." Luke 6:45 "Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter?" James 3:11

These things reveal much about where we seek contentment. If our eyes and hearts are fixed upon Christ, we won't be so easily disappointed and spring off of our emotions. After all, our only stability is found in Christ, our unmoveable Rock! 

"Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;" Philippians 2:14-15

My sweet lil friend reminded me yesterday, "Always remember Michelle, life's not fair". It's true! May we praise the Lord more and complain less! There should be a notable difference in us who have Christ, not mirror those of this world. 

Father, please fix our hearts upon Christ by Your Spirit which is stronger that any super glue, for Your glory. In Jesus name. Amen!!!