When Hurting Helps - Psalm 23:The Lord, Our Shepherd

Psalm 23:4; Hebrews 12:3-11

Rarely do we associate trials, suffering, or pain as something that is actually good for us. When we want to help someone, our first instinct is usually to try and alleviate the struggle or ease the pain they are going through, and that is what we desire from God. Yet, the truth is, in many cases, the best thing we can do for someone we love is to allow or even induce some pain that will actually protect and help them. Such is the case with the shepherd leading his sheep, particular through difficult or dangerous places, and such is the case with the comforting discipline of our heavenly Father for his children. Here we look at the gracious discipline of the Lord, our Shepherd, and consider when hurting actually helps.