Discipline isn't a word we rejoice over usually, but when it has to do with us and God we actually. It means something, a good something! Discipline is necessary for us to get stronger in our faith. Think of an athlete. If an athlete doesn't train, no matter how much natural talent she has, she won't be at her best. The spiritual life is the same.
I want to share some words from Kay Arthur on this subject. Here goes:
God's disciplines "are evidence of His love, the certainty that He has a plan, a purpose for you that is not yet complete. We are not to take the discipline of the LORD lightly. We are not to faint under it. We are instead to 'be subject to God' to not rebel, walk away, say it is too much, not fair. If we do, we jeopardize our Christlikeness and our future . . . Sin is not the end of life . . . Don't faint: rather, endure."
And I would add that discipline doesn't just come when we sin. Discpline is part of the growing process whether or not sin is involved.
Rejoice if you have a lot of challenges right now in your life. God will use each and every one to deepen you and make you more like Him!