Response Time

When we call 911, we expect a fast response time. Firemen and police arrive on the scene in a matter of minutes. It’s an emergency and we need help—fast.

When we send up a heavenly 911, we expect fast help from God too.

God, help me with ______. God, get me out of __________. God, I need you now.

And, God, in his faithfulness, is always there.

But what about our response time?

Our response time? Response time to what?

Response time to correction.

Proverbs 17: 10 NIV says, “A rebuke impresses a man of discernment more than a hundred lashes a fool.”

Are you a “rebukes” or “lashes” person? When it comes to correction, training, and discipline, do you respond quickly to a simple rebuke, meaning a quiet word from Mom or Dad is enough to change your behavior or attitude? Or, do you require the lash, a stronger consequence, for change to take place?

Hebrews 12:9-10 NIV talks about discipline:

“…we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of our spirits and live! Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.”

God and our parents use discipline and correction as training in good choices. It’s a sign of their love when they teach us self-control and obedience. Are you teachable? Coachable? Do you fight against their authority or listen and respond?

The world is full of fools and they aren’t hard to spot. They just don’t get it and nothing seems to get through to them. A boy or girl with discernment, one who not only knows right from wrong, but does it, will have favor with both friends their own age and adults in authority. Though not perfect, they receive instruction and correction well and set a great example for others. They have a response time that grown-ups notice. God notices too and He blesses their obedience.

Strive to be a young man or young lady of discernment. Check your response time.