Jeremiah 30:11—But I will not make a full end of thee. (R.V.)
There is a great difference between the punishment of the ungodly and the chastisement of God’s children. In the former case there is destruction. The sirocco passes over the grass, and there is nought left but burnt and withered stubble. In the latter case there will be restoration and an aftermath.
Are you just now passing through a season of chastisement and pain? Take to heart these tender words: God will not make a full end of you. It may seem as though nothing will be left: the furnace is so hot; the stock is cut down so near to the ground. But God knows just how much you can bear, and will stay his hand. "I will not make a full end of thee."
He will correct us with judgment. There is need for Him to correct us; so much requires pruning away, and refining. But if He were not to exercise great judgment, the soul would fail before Him. This is why we are told that the Father is the Husbandman. To no other hand could He entrust this delicate and sacred work: and while his eye and hand are full of eagerness to accomplish his purpose, they always move at the dictate of his judgment. His hand is always on our pulse.
Chastening also anticipates a blessed restoration. This chapter has many tender gleams of hope in it. "I will restore health unto thee, and I will heal thee of thy wounds, saith the Lord." "I will turn again the captivity of Jacob’s tents, and have compassion on his dwelling places." Look forward, poor suffering one! Beyond the dark clouds light is shining on the hills. When the discipline is over the Lord will take you to his care, wash your stripes, restore comforts to you, and give harvests of joy.