Title: Self Discipline
Scripture: No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize. – 1 Corinthians 9:27
At the heart of any successful person, is self-discipline. Whether it’s success in their personal lives or their professional lives, it all starts with an inherent ability for self-control through discipline. Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit. We mature in it with time as our knowledge and experience increases. Our Words, our thoughts, our emotions, our behaviors and habits are be kept in check (Philippians 4:8)
self-discipline isn’t something new. In fact, self-discipline has been a topic of discussion for thousands of years as we can see in the scriptures. If we are going to achieve our vision for this year, we must understand how disciplining ourselves is a key ingredient to the success recipe
What successful people have come to understand is that discipline is the gateway to the achievement of their goals. Self, means everyone else is doing it but I cannot. The Hebrews boys were offered the kings’ portion for their food. They refused but rather chose to suffer yet they excel (Daniel 1:12). There is tendency to say, “this is what is in fashion now, this is what everyone is doing now”. To be outstanding in any field you must be self-disciplined.
Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. – 1 Corinthians 9:24-25
I offer the following step in self discipline:
- Set Goals and have a Vision. Goal setting instills discipline because it gives us direction. This can be broken down into daily, weekly, monthly and year goals. It helps to track, analyze, and see how far you’ve come, where you are, and how far you’ve left to go
- Be Organized. An organized life is a disciplined life. This is a simple habit. Like all habits it can be formed and perfected over time. Your mind becomes more relaxed, stress free, and able to focus.
- Time Management. This is one area many people fall short. Time is a great equalizer. When we can properly manage our time, we have room for the stuff that matters
- Persistence and Consistence: getting discourage is easy, but the words of Jesus are very clear. It is only he that endures to end shall be saved (Matthew 24:13).
If I was to summarize Self-discipline into four words, they will be manage, focus, avoid and limit. Have a wonderful day.
Prayer Points
- Father, help me to be more self-disciplined in conduct, speech and thoughts in Jesus name
- Father, help me to identify the weaknesses in my life in Jesus name
- Father, I refuse to be a cast away, use me for your glory in Jesus name
