Friday, April 20, 2007

The time I was slapped upside the head

I added the following comment in response to this post on George Whitefield:

Consider this a “testimony” (I'm not trying to argue with anybody!):

Many years ago, when I was a teenager (or pre-teen, I don't precisely remember), I was talking back to my great-grandmother when—Whop!—she slapped me upside my head. I believe I was kneeling or sitting on the floor at the time. Well, after she slapped me, I found myself getting up off the floor!

Although, I resented it at the time (of course!), I knew I was in the wrong. She was not wrong. I "asked" for it, and she simply gave me what I "asked" for. Since it happened to me, I can tell you: I was not physically hurt (my head was hard—both literally and figuratively); the only thing hurt was my pride.

With the passage of time (at least 30 years), I honestly believe I deserved exactly what I received that day. I was way out of line. In no way at all was my great-grandmother abusive—absolutely not. I didn't think so, then; and I don't think so now.

One more thing: In light of Hebrews 12:5-11, I think it is reasonable to conclude that God inflicts corporal punishment on His children (and, in my opinion, He sometimes slaps them upside the head, too, if that's what it takes). At least, that's been my experience.

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