DISCIPLINE

Anyone who has played in any athletic endeavor, or participated in some sort of physical activity or training, has probably heard some version of the following sayings….”when the going gets tough, the tough get going….or no pain, no gain.” We see these sayings posted in gym locker rooms or workout facilities and weight rooms.

These words, no pain, no gain could sum up perfectly Paul’s philosophy. Paul said “I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that… I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.” 1 COR. 9: 27

Discipline requires effort and sacrifice. You must be willing…(that willing word again) and have the will to want to endure what is needed to qualify for the prize as Paul puts it. Discipline is committing to that end each and every day. The work is sometimes hard and unbearable. It is worthwhile however. There is a double prize bonus.

First, there is the earthly prize of accomplishment and impact. More importantly, there is the eternal prize that Paul is talking about. Personal discipline brings great rewards.

FATHER GOD, HELP ME TO STAY FOCUSED HOUR BY HOUR, DAY BY DAY, ON THE PRIZE

FATHER GOD, HELP ME WITH MY EFFORTS, MY SACRIFICE, AND THRU THE PAIN OF DISCIPLINE NECESSARY TO GROW AND MOVE TOWARDS THE PRIZE.

FATHER GOD, HELP ME FOCUS ON THE PRIZE IN THE NOW AND CURRENT MOMENT EACH AN EVERY DAY 365/24/7

“Faithfulness to God requires faith even in the hard times…..Especially in the hard times.”