There’s not one solid answer that anyone could give that’ll explains why people, including children, become so surprised when they are faced with punishment or discipline.
Most people are familiar with the biblical saying, “Warning comes before destruction“(though that may be mostly for sorta extreme measures) -however, it still applies to every person that makes the decision to disobey authority and continue doing wrong.
There was one recent moment I had with my youngest daughter, Kamryn, where she continuously pulled back the back of my work chair. After telling her to stop several times, she refused and continued on. Eventually, I had to turn around and discipline her.
Her facial expression was probably the most shocking one ever as it led to her crying.
I warned.
But she didn’t listen.
This moment with my daughter made me realize that we, too, are this same way with Father God.
He gives countless warnings in His word, yet people still carry on and do what they want to do.
But when trouble or discipline comes, we shouldn’t be surprised nor feel that we didn’t deserve it.
God is fair. And His discipline is meant to turn our attention back to the One who is Authority, listen and obey instructions, and set us on the right path.
Though our troubles and punishments never feel good, they have benefits. They can serve as reminders of what to do and what not to do and helps us make the best decisions moving forward.
“Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.”
Proverbs 16:18 NIV
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