Rejoicing

Ya remember when you got punished by your parents and they said "this hurts me more than it hurts you?" We mocked our parents for saying that because it became so cliche. Being a parent now, I can understand to a certain degree what they meant. I think that is perhaps a weak illustration of how God feels about disciplining us. He would much rather be rejoicing at our obedience than doling out punishment. I think God wants us to be happy and enjoy life as indicated by verses such as Matthew 7:11. I would go so far to say that in some cases walking around in a constant state of guilt is ungrateful. God has given us many things that we can rejoice in. I say let's rejoice in him. Deal with your sins by all means. When you're done with that, get about the business of glorifying God!