Discipline for many is a dreaded word. For most it means doing something that at best is uncomfortable. Without a doubt, discipline means not doing something that would be easy, and doing something that is more difficult instead. We see discipline as engaging in a less enjoyable exercise instead of just doing what we want to do. Spiritual disciplines generally mean spending time or effort on God’s behalf rather than our own (although I would argue that anything we do that glorifies God is ultimately better for us anyway). Craig Groeschel gave a great definition of discipline in a recent message he preached. He said that, “Discipline is doing the right thing regardless of how you feel in the moment.”
I love that definition because it can be applied to every area of our life; whether we are trying to reach spiritual, physical, or financial goals, the definition works. When it comes to our discipleship, we will face many times when we would rather do something self-serving rather than do the work required of our mission. Given the choice, most of us would rather cater to ourselves than others. That’s where discipline comes in. We must discipline ourselves to always default to what Jesus would do. That is after all, the right thing regardless of any circumstance.
Satan loves to point out the wider path, the one that is easier to travel. Who wouldn’t rather curl up on the couch and watch a great movie instead of going to help out in a soup kitchen or {gasp!} spend two hours in focused and fervent prayer for the needs of others. I can’t speak for what it’s like for people in other countries, but Americans are so self-absorbed that we have become our own idols. The only way out of this mess is to apply some discipline to our lives.
We know the right thing to do, regardless of how we feel in the moment, is to glorify God. Whenever we find ourselves doing what glorifies us rather than God, we are lacking the discipline required of a disciple. We should immediately confess our weakness and ask for the strength to stay focused on Jesus and His mission. This is the greatest discipline and habit we will ever build into our lives.
Once this discipline is in place, everything else in our relationship with God will fall in line. We will begin to see the world and everyone in it through His eyes. It will unleash the ability within us to love as Jesus loves. We will seek to honor Him in everything that we do. No longer will we walk by those in need without offering a kind word or helping hand. His thoughts will be our thoughts. We will move in rhythm with His plan and according to His design. Can’t you see how discipline is the most fulfilling and satisfying thing you will ever develop in your life? It’s not easy, but it is more than worth the struggle. It is doing the right thing regardless of how you feel in the moment.