Most growth is painful. Truth be known, in most cases people do not grow until they are uncomfortable (that includes you and me).
Therefore if you love someone you will wisely and intentionally create pain in their life for their own good.
Inflicting pain upon people can come in many ways. For example, pain may come by not helping them with something and insisting they take responsibility. It may come by lovingly but firmly telling them the truth. It may come (especially in the case of a child) with inflicting purposeful and consistent discipline upon them.
The one thing the pain will never be is destructive. The goal is not to hurt people, it is to help people. In inflicting pain you are not lashing out in anger, you are leading in love–leading them toward growth and improvement.
- The ONE THING for today: Have the courage to care enough about the growth and well-being of the people God brings into your life that you’re willing to make things uncomfortable for them if needed.
Proverbs 27:6 (NKJV)
6 Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.
Sometimes it is painful to inflict pain while trying to help someone, especially when they don’t respond. It is easier just to give in but if we stay true GOD wins in the end. (Still waiting) Thank you for your words of truth.