There are still complainers among Christians, just as there were in Israel's camp long ago. Some cry out when hardship comes, asking, "Why am I going through this? What did I do to deserve such discipline?" Listen closely, complainer. Why question your heavenly Father's decisions? Can He really deal with you more harshly than you deserve? Remember how rebellious you used to be, yet He's forgiven you. If He in His wisdom chooses to discipline you now, you shouldn't grumble.

Are you truly punished as harshly as your sins warrant? Think about the sinfulness within you. Does it surprise you that a firm hand might be needed to draw it out? Examine yourself. See how much impurity mixes with your faith. Do you really believe the refining process is too severe? Doesn't your proud, defiant spirit show your heart isn't fully sanctified?

Your complaints clash with the faithful, obedient nature of God's children. Isn't correction necessary? If you insist on complaining, beware. It will be harder for those who murmur. God disciplines His children again if they don't handle the first rebuke patiently.

Remember this: "He doesn't afflict willingly or grieve His children." Every correction is given in love, to purify and bring you closer to Him. Let the knowledge of your Father's hand help you accept correction with grace. "Whom the Lord loves, He disciplines, and punishes every child He accepts." "Do not grumble as some of them did and were destroyed by the destroyer."