The Joy of a Disciplined Life

"But have nothing to do with worldly fables fit only for old women. On the other hand, discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness" (1 Timothy 4:7)

"Discipline" was not a very comforting word when I was growing up, beloved! In fact, it reminded me of those times when I would have to sit down gingerly following one of Mom or Dad's visits to my room. No, discipline was definitely not a very comforting word!

Today the same word carries for me personally thoughts of those daily trips to the Y for a good workout on the treadmill. So clearly "discipline" has a variety of meanings and experiences in our lives. But the one kind of discipline that seems to be least understood and most neglected is that of self-discipline.

Here we find the Apostle Paul exhorting young Timothy to "discipline" himself for the purpose of attaining a life of personal godliness. It is interesting that this key word comes from the original Greek word gumnazo from which we derive our English words "gymnasium" and "gymnastics." The primary meaning is that of training oneself in a certain direction. And the context of the apostle's words makes it clear also that his focus was that of spiritual discipline. Very simply, we as Christians need to establish within our lives a system of consistent spiritual discipline.

And the direction which all such self-discipline is to take is that of "godliness." The Greek word eusebeia means quite literally "well-directed reverence." It does not, however, refer to one's inner holiness but rather his outward practice of that holiness. The whole picture for the believer, then, is that of personal devotion or devoutness. Thus, our "godliness" as believers will be visible for everyone who knows us to see!

So much more could be said here about our need for self-discipline, beloved, but let's leave that for another time. Instead, why not stop right now and ask yourself how "disciplined" your daily living as a Christian is? Are you working out spiritually through such "exercises" as the study of God's Word, meaningful prayer time with God, strong friendships with people of like-minded faith, serving others through your God-given spiritual gifts, and carrying within you a burden for the lost so that you do not miss a single opportunity to share the good news of Christ with anyone? If not, may I encourage you to start "working out" today? As Paul went on to tell Timothy, such living does not only "hold promise for the present life" but also "for the life to come" (v.8).

Ron