For whom the Lord loves, He chastens

Posted on Aug. 27, 2025, 9:18 a.m. by Rev. Shobayo Kayode The Gospel Study Centre

“Whom have I offended?” a common question that is unconsciously asked when one falls into sudden unpleasant situation. A situation in which one cannot explain why or how a moment that appeared to be going on fine suddenly turned the other way round. All manners of situation like sudden health challenge, unexpected disappointment, dashed hope, sudden death of a loved one, e.t.c. When such situations occur, all manners of questions come to mind. When Job was in a similar situation, his question was "Shall we accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity?" (Job. 2:10) Job's question indicated that his focus has always been on God. It therefore means that, the question, 'Whom have I offended' is an expression of doubt in one's faith and trust in God. You may want to ask, why do God allow unpleasant situation to happen to His people? God allows it to happen because it is part of life that no one enjoys, though it is for good purpose. The Bible says, "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose" (Rom. 8:28) Our Lord Jesus Christ also says, "In the world you will have tribulation, but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." (John. 16:33) Job story attested to the biblical facts. Satan decided to trouble Job because of God's love for Job, but at the end, Job overcame the tribulation of the Satan. Job in the tribulation realized that he was not as righteous as he thought he was, he repented and his relationship with God became more intimate. (Job. 41:5-6) He thereafter realized that all that happened was for God's purpose, and he said, "I know that You can do everything, and that no purpose of Yours can be withheld from You." (Job. 42:1) Again, God occasionally uses unpleasant situation to correct, educate and to help one's growth. The word of God says, "My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord, nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him, for whom the lord loves He chasten and scourges every son He receives." (Heb. 12:5-6) It implies that God deals with His children as a parent deals with his child. God's chastisement is to mold believer's character and transform his life. David said, "Before I was afflicted, I went astray, but now I keep your word." (Psalm.119:67) Job testifies, "Behold, happy is the man whom God corrects, therefore do not despise the chastening off the Almighty" (Job.5:17) Brethren, when unpleasant situation comes your way, be careful of what you think, say or do in the situation. Simply keep your hope alive and think not that God has deserted you. God is surely in the situation with you. He has promised not to leave nor forsake His people. Such moment is the time to rely on His power, trust Him the more by meditating on His promises in His Word, praising Him and praying for the help to strengthen and sustain you through the power of the indwelling Holly Spirit to be able to overcome the situation. Make correction in the way and manner you relate with God, focus your eyes on Him, so you can proudly say, "It is good for me that I have been afflicted." (Psalm. 119:71) And like Job, you shall recover in multiple folds whatever that is lost, to the glory of God. To anyone and everyone going through any unpleasant situation now, hear the word of God, "Yet in all these things you are more than conqueror through whom loved you." Your victory over the situation is assured in Jesus mighty name. Amen Evangelism Indwelling Holy Spirit is the free gift of God to those that have accepted Jesus Christ as their Saviour and Lord. Take a step of faith, go to a nearby Bible believing Church today for further assistance. Rev. Shobayo Kayode The Gospel Study Centre