It almost goes without saying, but I dislike discipline. I like to play. I like to nap. I like to sit on the couch and do nothing. I like to read. And did I mention, I love a good catnap! I have a very sanguine nature and I simply do not like discipline. It is hard and it is my nature to avoid anything that is hard! I find any form of discipline to be constraining and uncomfortable. But as I walk with God, I am discovering that the essence of the Christian life is just plain ole discipline. Bummer!
I believe discipline must spring forth from a devotional love for the Lord, and not from the legalistic approach that enjoys living by external rules and regulations in order to impress or appear spiritual. What I am talking about must issue forth from an internal motivation based on a love relationship with the Lord.
I want God's power on my life. I want a life that counts for Christ. I want to actively be involved in the kingdom work. I want that more than I dislike discipline. I am finding that it takes discipline to read the Word and study it. It takes discipline to pray and plead on behalf of my personal prayer assignments. It takes discipline to give and love and serve as Christ would have me do as His ambassador here on earth. It takes discipline, something that does not come easily for me. Did I mention, I like to take catnaps? But I am finding that in order to facilitate my calling and fulfill God's purpose and plan for my life, I must become disciplined. I must be disciplined because I am devoted. I am devoted to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
I choose Christ. I choose discipline. In I Timothy 4:7-8 Paul wrote, "Disciple yourself for the purpose of godliness; for bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come."
I choose discipline. How about you?
