Discipline

June 11, 2008

By Gary Rogers

The word “discipline” creates a number of mental images. Some view discipline as a chore satisfying an obligation or duty. Think of a drill sergeant forcing out 50 more push-ups or a coach driving you to the brink of exhaustion. Others only see discipline as punishment. They see an angry parent waving a paddle or a judge wielding a gavel. Such views of discipline create negative feelings. I’d like for you to consider a different view of discipline.

Discipline can be a powerful word leading to great accomplishments. Discipline, as the motivation to achieve a desired end, creates opportunities to conquer laziness, weakness, inability, physical restrictions, ignorance, boredom and aimless living. Discipline has the potential of becoming a resource to lose 40 pounds, give physical therapy to a weak or injured body, overcome an unwanted habit, land a job promotion, and find consistent fulfillment in being the best you can be.

Spiritual discipline gives many benefits. Daily time in prayer, consistent Bible study, family devotional time and quiet meditation on God are byproducts of a disciplined spiritual life. You will not accomplish these wonderful spiritual blessings without first making them a personal objective, then following through in a disciplined manner.

Every family, every business, every ministry, every organization with objectives to be reached must have someone in a position of influence who is well disciplined. In your personal spiritual walk the goals and objectives you have set can be achieved as the Holy Spirit empowers your disciplined commitment. You will never accomplish anything of value by accident. Great accomplishments are a byproduct of God’s blessings and provisions coupled with your personal discipline.

“And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light” (Colossians 1:10-12, NIV).

— Gary Rogers is senior pastor of First Assembly of God in Coweta, Okla.