I read a Craig Groeschel quote recently that really stuck with me. He said, “Discipline is sacrificing what you want now, for what you really want later.”
Wow. So true! Anything worth achieving requires sacrifice and discipline.
Titus 1:8
Rather, he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined.
You want a lean, healthy physique? You need to make daily healthy eating habits and exercise!
You want to earn a degree? You need to spend time studying indeed of socializing!
You want to learn to play an instrument? You need to practice, practice, practice!
You want a more intimate relationship with God? You need to invest TIME in prayer, worship, study and service!
I’ve heard it said that the definition of insanity is trying the same thing over and over again expecting different results. Have you been doing the same things over and over again NOT getting the results you desire?
Discipline requires a great deal of self-control. Many of us struggle in this area! Yet God calls us to live a life full of the fruits of the Spirit—and self-control is one!
I know that in my life, without the Lord, I have little to no self-control. If I were left to my own strength, I’d do whatever I wanted NOW. I have to daily ask the Lord to fill me with God’s Spirit in order that together we may bear the fruit of Spirit.
Is there an area of your life that you feel needs to be more disciplined? What is something you’ve wanted to achieve? I encourage you to stop right now and pray that God helps you develop greater self-control and discipline in your life.