DISCIPLINE:
SELF DISCIPLINE 6-21-13
Normally
when we think of the word discipline the tendency is to think of punishment of
some sort. However, self discipline is a good and positive behavior or practice
for a child of God. My encouragement is that we discipline ourselves to schedule
meaningful and consistent alone time with God. God gives us health, strength
and 24 hours in a day. At least, (myself included) we should set aside some
time to renew and strengthen the “inner man” our soul. We desire to grow in
grace and in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus 2 Peter 3:18. For this “growing in
grace” to happen we must nourish our souls with the Word of God and spend time
in prayer. Some self disciplines for the child of God to engage in are- reading/studying
the Word, prayer, meditation, fasting, journaling, and memorizing the Word
among other disciplines. We practice these disciplines to be transformed in
becoming more like Jesus, that’s the goal. Paul admonishes Timothy to study the
Word. Jesus used the Word when Satan approached Him in the wilderness after His
baptism. We too must study and know the Word of God for it is our greatest
weapon. The Word of God is the Sword of the Spirit, Ephesians 6:17. Whitney
& Packer say that “Regardless of how busy we become with all things
Christian, we must remember that the most transforming practice available to us
is the disciplined intake of Scripture.” Did you make time to read the
Scripture today? Did you make time to pray? Did you spend quality time in the
presence of God today? It’s not too late. I encourage you to make time now. God
bless! 
