Tag Archives: discipline

“Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children.  For what children are not disciplined by their father? If you are not disciplined — and everyone undergoes discipline — then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all.”  (Hebrews 12:7-8, NIV)

Even as flawed parents, we hope that our children will become as we are — only better.  So, we allow various kind of inconveniences (of varying severity) to achieve that goal.  Perfect in every way, our heavenly Father’s ultimate goal for you and me is that we become exactly like Him!

Whether we view the inevitable hardships of life as punishment (as some do); or as preparation (as others do), depends on the nature of our relationship with God.

When difficulties and hardships invade your life, do you ask, “Why me”; or do you say, “Why not”?  – Luther

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“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”  (2 Timothy 1:7, NIV)

Who doesn’t want power?

Who doesn’t want to be loved?

Who doesn’t want self-discipline?

God’s spirit within us provides the wherewithal to live confidently; to walk boldly; and to control the only thing in this world that we truly have a say about: Our own actions.

We release the power of the Holy Spirit, Who lives within us, through obedience to the Spirit’s leading.  Failure to obey the Spirit leads to the same unfruitful ends as failing to obey a road map, or a recipe.  – Luther

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“Whoever heeds discipline shows the way to life, but whoever ignores correction leads others astray.” (Proverbs 10:17, NIV)

In what things do we display “discipline”?

Is it in the practice of unceasing prayer?  Is it in the practice of hospitality?  Is it in a lifestyle of humility?  Is it in the practice of valuing time in worship with others?

Know it or not; like it or not; our children, and our peers, and our co-workers, and our neighbors, and the casual stranger are watching us live our lives.  Do they see within us a discipline that “shows the way to life”?

Conversely, when we ignore discipline and correction, our lives shift to a path that leads nowhere — and know it or not; like it or not; others follow.

Heeding the discipline of healthy and holy habits not only delivers us, but it delivers others to life, as well.  – Luther

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