SHEPHERD
TO SHEEP
PERSONAL
DISCIPLINE
(1 Cor 9:25, 27) And everyone who competes
for the prize is temperate in all things…27 But I discipline my body and bring
it into subjection…
Well, here
we are on top of another new year. We’ve
indulged during the holidays in lots of food and fun and are now feeling
bloated and broke. We’ve set some goals
and are motivated to take on some challenges.
But what will we do when we start losing that inspiration down the line? We’re going to need some personal discipline
to keep on with the task and accomplish what God has set before us.
If there is
one thing that sets apart a winner from a loser it is personal discipline. Paul references the Olympic games when it
comes to being self-controlled in one’s desires and how a person needs to reign
in the body appetites to win the prize. Are
you ready to be one of those winners in life when others give up and give
in?
Brothers and
sisters, it’s time we say NO to ourselves and our desires so we can reach the
goal that is set before us. God has
great plans for our lives this year but we need to do our part in making the
right choices. We can’t have our way and
God’s way at the same time. Once we turn
our will over to the Lord then we will get that stimulus we need to forge on
despite the obstacles before us.
A lot of us
were spoiled and coddled growing up. Our
parents did so much for us that the instinct to fight was never really bred
into the fabric of our life. Others of
us are just so laid back that we need a push in the right direction. Some of us are so indecisive and are afraid
of taking any risks because it’s all about being safe. When we give into these fears and
apprehensions we think we are in a safe house but we are really in a prison of
procrastination, losing ground to the territory God has for us. (Josh
13:1) Now Joshua was old, advanced in years. And the Lord said to him: “You are
old, advanced in years, and there remains very much land yet to be possessed.
Are you
ready to say no to laziness and taking the easy way in life? Disciples of Christ must have discipline so
they will accomplish the Father’s will and not their own. (Mat
16:24) Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to come after Me,
let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. Cry out to the Lord and ask Him for the
incentive you need to really do something for the kingdom of God this
year. (Phil 2:13) for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for
His good pleasure. Tell yourself
that even if you don’t feel like it you will read your Bible, exercise, make
that phone call, take that class, etc.
And you know what it will cost you in less TV, computer, entertainment, sleep,
etc. But by this time next year your
goals will have been met and your joy level full. Personal discipline will lead to praise the
Lord!
Louie
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