Discipline

There are several different words that are translated "discipline" in the Bible.  Each one has a different sense to it.  Here are five different meanings to New Testament Greek words translated discipline in the NASB.  :  Self Control- 2 Tim 1:7, Beat up, Subdue-1 Cor 9:27, Train, correction-1 Cor 11:32, Eph 6:4, Arrangement, order-Col 2:5, Body Training, exercise-1 Tim 4:8-9.

I list these because I am working on having a more disciplined life and these words capture what I am seeking to have.  Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit and as I allow the Spirit to have greater control of my life, I trust that I will see more self-control in my life, both in my choices, my words, and my reactions.

The idea of beating up my body and doing bodily training are two more meanings that I seek to accomplish.  I have been working on getting more physically fit.  My week in the Dominican Republic helped me along on that goal with good physical activity all week.  Since I have returned I am working to be disciplined with my exercise and eating.

Arrangement is the fourth aspect of discipline that I am seeking.  To have my life in greater order, working ahead on projects, managing my schedule and my time wisely.  This is important to that the things that I should be accomplishing I am.  It is too easy to say that I am too busy.  If I discipline/order my life I will have time to do the important things.

Finally training and correction.  I am always in need of these and need to keep my heart open to them.  I am reading a great book right now that is giving me great training.  I also need to be constantly ready to be corrected as others point out things that I should be doing differently, more of, or not at all.  When I get stubborn and proud and don't want or listen to correction, I become the Bible's definition of a fool.

So, a big goal for me this winter/spring is discipline, in all its flavors.  That extends to this blog as well.  I try to discipline myself to take the 10-20 minutes a day that a blog post requires.  Some days may have to be skipped, but if I am skipping more than I am writing, you will know that I am struggling in some of my areas of discipline.  So keep an eye on the blog and feel free to ask me about Discipline.