Discipline

There are all kinds of discipline in this life, but there are only two ways discipline is imposed. There is discipline that others impose and discipline we self-imposed. Neither is pleasant, but both are beneficial. Depending on the intensity and length of the discipline, it can be very unpleasant. But this doesn't mean it yields no benefit. For example, when we restart a diet, workout, or any new spiritual discipline, for a period we feel no benefit, only pain, agony, and suffering. But we need to push through the pain to realize the benefits. And when the benefits come, like weight loss, increased strength, and spiritual growth, these become a substantial reward. This reward can become so gratifying that we may think we have arrived on our strength because of our discipline. In the physical dimension, to some degree this is true. In the spiritual dimension, nothing could be further from the truth. Spiritual discipline is done from a different motivation and a different reason, not to bring glory ourself self, but glory to God.

For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.—Hebrews 12:11

DO THIS: Practice a spiritual discipline and do it for God's glory, not your own.

PRAYER: God, show me my need for discipline and help me respond with the right motivation giving glory to You.

JOURNAL IT: "I am not burdened by the responsibly of results, but I am burdened by the responsibility of obedience."

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