1 I heard a familiar voice calling me from time to time. As if awakened from a dream, I looked to see who was calling. The voice was gentle yet stern, an image of such beauty. The words were like a sharp sword piercing my heart and spirit. They laid bare the truth of my corruption, I had nowhere to hide. In distress and disgust, I reflected on everything I’d done. Competing with God for status exposed my lowness. God is God after all and man is still man—I really had no sense. I was arrogant, foolish, and ignorant, I didn’t know myself. I knew no shame and did embarrassing things, and my heart is filled with regret. Deeply corrupted by Satan, I’d become so base. Poisoned by and steeped in the thoughts of the evil one, I’d lost all humanity. The fact was revealed that I was deeply corrupted and had no human likeness. Without eradicating my corrupt disposition, my service will be in vain. With a head filled with notions, ignorant of God, how could I not resist Him? I owe all to God’s judgment and chastisement cleansing and saving me.

2 I am beaten and suffer great pain, yet a loving hand is there caressing me. God judges me for my rebellion and injustice. I hate myself, a long-time follower of the Lord who did not know God. Seeing God is truly righteous and holy, I utterly submit. Judgment and chastisement are God’s love, His blessing. Only because of His salvation by judgment do I have this day. God’s realness and almightiness are fully revealed to man. Living in the light, I know God and I see His loveliness. God is so lovely, I love God with my heart, I’ll bear witness to Him forever.