What does it mean to be chastened by the Lord?

Chastisement from the Lord, as mentioned in Lamentations and reaffirmed in Hebrews 12, is not punitive in the sense of payment for sin—that has been accomplished by Christ. Instead, God's discipline is a demonstration of His love and concern for our growth as His children. It reminds us that we are His sons and daughters, and with that privilege comes the expectation of correction. This divine discipline encourages us to seek Him and grow in our faith rather than succumb to bitterness or despair over our circumstances.