We left off last time talking about taking action. By this
point we understand that a life not led by God’s Spirit is
unfulfilled and depressing (no matter what image you project to other
people). So here lies the problem that most people have, “I love God and want
to please Him, but I just cannot make myself do it.” You simply lack one thing
my friend;
We all have desires in life, but desires alone are futile in
reaching your goals (if you have any goals). A desire alone is as successful as
a lead balloon:
You won’t get anywhere!
No, in order to reach God’s
best for your life you need discipline. Discipline is defined as enforced
order, prescribed conduct, or self-control. Let’s see how Paul words this in 1
Corinthians 9:23-27 (NASB):
I do all things for the sake of the gospel, so that I may become a fellow partaker of it. Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win. Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. They then do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. Therefore I run in such a way, as not without aim; I box in such a way, as not beating the air; but I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that, after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified.
The main point he brings out here is
that we should be diligent in our Christian life. Athletes compete for rewards
that will waste away, but the rewards for living a godly life are everlasting.
How do we get there? How do run in a way that we may win? We run with aim, we
make our bodies our slaves, we live a life full of spiritual discipline.
Meditation
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 9:23-27 (NASB)
Prayer:
Dear Lord, I need You right now. My life is out of order. I am stressed,
unsatisfied, and unproductive. I lack discipline. Your Word says that if I
acknowledge you in all my ways, then You will direct me. I need Your direction
Jesus. Please help me live an orderly, structured life. I am
tired of drifting through life aimlessly and confused. I want a sense of
purpose. I want to reach the goals You have set. I want those everlasting rewards that only come from You. Give me strength God as I give
my entire life over to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
