There is a new explanation for why some of us are stubborn, have temper tantrums, resist direction, and bully others. It’s called ODD – Oppositional Defiant Disorder. Psychologists estimate that about 20% of us have this problem and that it shows up generally around 2 or 3 years of age. If you think I am joking, go ahead and Google it! What once was treated with firm discipline is now treated with medication “to help ease the tension introduced into the family unit and/or classroom” by those who have this diagnosis. I am not a psychologist but I wonder if what is now labeled as a disorder is the same thing we used to call being ‘strong-willed?’ Why do we medicate a child instead of persevering with the hard work of providing consistent, firm training?
Frequently I experience moments when a part of me wants to say, “no” to my Heavenly Father. The temptation to be selfish, to indulge myself, to be lazy, to say or do something cruel shows up in my mind. Do you think I might have spiritual ODD? Now, I am joking! What I have is a sinful nature that responds to the world systems, to the cravings of my body, and even to the seduction of the Devil! My earthly father took steps to point me in the right direction and to curb my impulses to do wrong unafraid of warping my personality with the application of discipline, even punishment! My Heavenly Father likewise acts to transform my character, though not always in ways that I find pleasant. Though many reject the this truth, the Bible even tells us that He will punish those who do wrong with the goal of making us like Jesus. The Bible reminds us that "We respect our own parents for training and not spoiling us, so why not embrace God’s training so we can truly live? While we were children, our parents did what seemed best to them. But God is doing what is best for us, training us to live God’s holy best. At the time, discipline isn’t much fun. It always feels like it’s going against the grain. Later, of course, it pays off handsomely, for it’s the well-trained who find themselves mature in their relationship with God." (Hebrews 12:9-12, The Message)
Discipline seems to be a dirty word in America today. Some parents are nearly incapable of saying no to their children, conducting endless negotiations with toddlers instead providing firm, fair guidance. Might this reflect a lack of discipline in their own lives? Many of us resist direction from our boss, refuse responsibility at home, and argue with God’s commands – in the firm but foolish conviction that ultimate happiness is found in unfettered self-expression. “Me-ism” is rampant and is perhaps the most destructive idea in our culture.
Are you resisting the Lord today, disciple?
Are the “world, the flesh, and the Devil” working to seduce you with their lies about the joy found in doing your own thing?
The Scripture speaks of ‘the pleasures of sin for a season.’ (Hebrews 11:25) Rebellion feels great, for a while, but gradually the rebel cuts himself off from others who tire of the superficiality of his indulgences. The wise child of God responds to His correction and he then enjoys "a harvest of righteousness and peace." (Hebrews 12:11, NIV) My wife, a teacher of first-graders, drills a concept into the children in her classroom that says, “Obedience equals fun!” When they learn that she is the one in charge of the room they get their work finished and are able to take real joy in their accomplishments as well as experience more freedom of choice that grows out of their developing self-discipline. Bev’s first grade maxim is a good one for all God’s children- “Obedience equals fun!” Are you ready to submit to Him and live?
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When we walk with the Lord
In the light of His Word,
What a glory He sheds on our way!
While we do His good will,
He abides with us still,
And with all who will
Trust and obey.
But we never can prove
The delights of His love
Until all on the altar we lay;
For the favor He shows
And the joy He bestows
Are for them who will
Trust and obey.
Trust and obey,
For there's no other way
To be happy in Jesus,
But to trust and obey.
Trust And Obey
Sammis, Rev. John H. / Towner, Daniel B.
© Public Domain
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