1. Don't make light of God's discipline (4-5b)

Everybody needs training. Parents who love their children discipline them. God trains us because we are his children and he loves us. Life's hardships are God's opportunity to train us. Some people take God's training lightly. When they encounter difficulties they don't pray or struggle spiritually--they look around for an easy way out.

2. Don't lose heart (5c-9a)

We should not lose heart when God rebukes us; it is a sign that he loves us; we know that we are his children when he trains us with various kinds of hardships.

3. God disciplines us for our good (9b-13)

God's training has a point: He wants us to share in his holiness. Discipline is not pleasant, but it produces a harvest of peace and righteousness.

Application: Lord, thank you for loving me. Help me to grow in Jesus' image through your training.
One Word: God disciplines his children