GODLY SORROW
God’s loving chastisement.
Introduction
This workbook is designed to help you grow in your Christian faith through Scripture readings, reflection, and actionable steps. Spend about 30 minutes engaging with the material, and allow the Holy Spirit to guide you in your journey.
1. Opening Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for Your presence and peace. We come before You with hearts full of gratitude for Your loving kindness and mercy. Guide us through this time of reflection and help us to understand Your ways. Amen.
2. Scripture Reading: Hebrews 12:1-17
Read the following passage slowly:
"Therefore, we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith..."
Reflection Questions:
What weight or sin do you feel is holding you back in your faith journey?
How can you shift your focus to Jesus in your daily life?
3. Understanding Chastisement
Key Verse:
Proverbs 3:11-12
"My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord, nor be weary when you are rebuked by Him; for whom the Lord loves, He corrects, just as a father the son in whom he delights."
Reflection Questions:
How do you understand God’s chastisement in your life?
Why do you think correction is a sign of God’s love?
4. Scripture Reading: Romans 9:10-18
Read the following passage:
"And not only this, but when Rebecca also had conceived by one man, even by our father Isaac... Jacob I have loved, but Esau I have hated..."
Reflection Questions:
What do you think this passage teaches us about God's sovereignty and mercy?
How can we apply the lessons from Jacob and Esau to our own lives?
5. Action Points
Identify Weights: Spend a few moments in prayer, asking God to reveal any weights or sins that are hindering your spiritual growth. Write them down.
Embrace Correction: Think about a recent situation where you felt corrected or chastised. How can you view this as an opportunity for growth? Write a short prayer of thanks for this experience.
Seek Accountability: Identify a trusted friend or mentor who can provide spiritual guidance. Reach out to them this week and share your desire for accountability in your faith journey.
6. Closing Reflection
Take a few moments to write down your thoughts on the following:
How does understanding chastisement change your view of your relationship with God?
In what ways can you cultivate a heart that is open to God’s correction?
7. Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for Your Word and for the lessons You teach us through chastisement. Help us to lay aside our burdens and to run towards You with endurance. May we always seek Your guidance and embrace Your correction as a sign of Your love. Amen.
Additional Resources
Books: Consider reading “The Discipline of Grace” by Jerry Bridges.
Devotional: Look for a daily devotional focusing on God’s love and discipline.
Community: Join a small group or Bible study to grow with others in faith.
Feel free to share this workbook with others who are looking to deepen their faith and understanding of God's ways!