The heavy hand of God’s discipline causes character change [real righteousness] in the Christian’s life. But failure to understand suffering will produce bitterness not forgiveness and Christ-like character.

“And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons: ‘My son, do not despise the chastening of the LORD, Nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him; 6 For whom the LORD loves He chastens, And scourges every son whom He receives.’”
Hebrews 12:5-6 (NKJV)

God’s Heavy Hand of Love
chastening = tutorage, i.e. education or training; by implication disciplinary correction :- chastening, chastisement, instruction, nurture.

rebuked = of uncertain affinity; to confute, admonish :- convict, convince, tell a fault, rebuke, reprove.

scourged = to flog (literal or figurative) :- scourge.

2 Peter 1:6 (AMP) “…in [exercising] self-control [develop] steadfastness (patience, endurance), and in [exercising] steadfastness [develop] godliness (piety),”

Tags: suffering, god's discipline, righteousness