Discipline In Discipleship.

“But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.” 1 Cor. 9:27.

In the 1880s a young man who was an earnest Christian found employment in a pawnshop. Although he disliked the work, he did it faithfully "as unto the Lord" until a more desirable opportunity opened for him. To prepare himself for a life of Christian service, he wrote on a scrap of paper the following resolutions: "I do promise God that I will rise early every morning to have a few minutes--not less than five--in private prayer. I will endeavor to conduct myself as a humble, meek, and zealous follower of Jesus, and by serious witness and warning I will try to lead others to think of the needs of their immortal souls. I hereby vow to read no less than four chapters in God's Word every day. I will cultivate a spirit of self-denial and will yield myself a prisoner of love to the Redeemer of the world."

That young man was William Booth, who later led thousands to Christ and founded the Salvation Army. Certain disciplines are quite a necessity for a staunch follower of Jesus. “Jesus said to his disciples: If you love me, you will do as I command.” John. 14:15. There are basic values known as the discipline of a disciple. It includes maintaining a sound and regular prayer life. Engaging in direct daily fellowship with God can't be over emphasized, the more you communicate with Him the more of Him you know and the more of Him you are becoming, as exemplified by Jesus' practice of spending time in prayer. Prayers must be followed up with the study of the scripture, it seems to be reducing in value these days but a true follower of Jesus, must study and read the Bible as often as he prays.

We must as a matter of necessity not forsake our sense of community. I mean fellowship and shared life with other believers, recognizing that Christianity is a team work, not a solo effort. We must be part of a church community. Where we can in concert with other believers express our reverence, praise, and adoration to God through various expressions, which can include singing, prayer, and reading Scripture. We must also indulge in Serving others within the church with our gifts. Which is a direct application of Jesus' example of a servant-hearted life. We must also practice kingdom generosity. Sharing resources and giving to those in need amongst us as clearly taught and practiced by the early church in the New Testament. Selah!

FURTHER READING:

“My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline or be weary of his reproof, for the Lord reproves him whom he loves, as a father the son in whom he delights.” Prov. 29:15.

“A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls.” Prov. 25:28.

DECLARATION: 

Dear Abba Father, I thank You for the gift of life and the privilege of salvation. Lord, I offer myself to You as your child and a follower of Your teachings. Please help me to have a deep desire to become more and more like Jesus in every way. Grant me the strength and courage to obey your word, even when it's difficult, trusting your leading more than my own understanding. Fill me with Your power to deny myself, take up my cross, and follow Jesus faithfully. Give me the discipline and willpower to resist temptation and to make choices that honor You always in the mighty name of Jesus, amen.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:

Mark. 1:1-45.

Mark. 2:1-28.

Mark. 3:1-35.

Mark. 4:1-41.

QUOTE FOR THE DAY:

“The Proof That You Know God Is That You Follow His Known Teachings.”