Now and afterwards - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2026

No chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.
Hebrews 12:11.

Now and afterwards
In Hebrews 12 the educational dealings by God, our heavenly Father, with believers are compared with the upbringing of children by their natural father. But there is one fundamental difference: our God and Father always acts perfectly, whereas earthly fathers can err considerably.

We do, however, recognise one parallel: in both cases the form of correction causes no joy at the time. We therefore seek to evade it, if possible. Sensing it to be unpleasant, we try any means to escape. Although this is understandable from the human point of view, God warns us against such conduct. We should never forget that divine chastening arises from a heart of love! That makes it easier to accept.

Our heavenly Father has, moreover, a purpose in mind with his action: producing the peaceable fruit of righteousness in our life. This can only happen, if we submit to His chastening. Through the heartfelt exercise and considerations it causes, we start to inquire after God's will in our desire to live more in agreement with Him. The rebellion in our heart then disappears, making way for peace.

If God's chastening makes us sad now, let us remember that the result will afterwards be one of blessing.

Today's reading: Amos 8:1-14 · Proverbs 25:1-10