According to psychologists (and common sense, of course), lack of discipline to our children causes a disconnect rather than a connection. The child doesn’t feel that he is living up to a standard and is left on his own. When you demand something from him, that is a psychological grasp, or holding his (mental) hand.
In the same vain, we feel Hashem’s love when he answers our Tefillos, but there is also a very strong and close connection to be realized when we get a message of discipline, too. For example, once I was in a rush and therefore didn’t want to go a little out of my way for someone. As I went on my way the road became blocked, and I ended up having to go down that same street that the person wanted to go. This is not a Ness, but when it happens right away and in the manner of instant feedback you feel the closeness of Hashem as a father guiding His son.