The Practice of Self-Discipline

“But I discipline my body and keep it
under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.”
 (1 Corinthians 9:27)

It’s not a flashy concept or an especially attractive
idea.  It doesn’t turn heads or grab headlines.  It can appear as small as saying
no to another Oreo or milkshake, another movie on Netflix, or one more hour on
Facebook.  It can even feel as important
as living out a decisive yes to sobriety and sexual purity.

Spiritual self-discipline isn’t a pursuit that we simply
force into a habit; for if that were the case, there would be little need for
the Holy Spirit in our lives.  It's best defined as the ability to regulate
one's conduct by principle and sound judgment, rather than by impulse, desire,
or social custom.  Biblically, self-discipline may be summarized in one word,
obedience.  To exercise self-discipline is to avoid evil by staying within the
bounds of God's law.

Remember, self-control is a fruit of the Spirit. (See Galatians
5:22-25)  We wouldn’t have it without the
Spirit since it is His gifting and work in us.  This understanding then begs the
question, “How do we become more self-disciplined in our spiritual lives?”

Self-discipline refers to self as the object of
discipline rather than its source.  Even though discipline is learned, and self
is the object of the discipline, the motivation and power to develop discipline
comes from the Spirit.

So then, in order to become self-disciplined, we need to
stop trying to take on the Spirit’s role as the source of life-changing power
and rely on the strength He will faithfully work in us.  Paul told Timothy to be
strengthened by the Grace of Jesus. (See 2 Timothy 2:1)  If our motivation isn’t coming from the Holy
Spirit, then we will continue to be unsuccessful, and fail in the practice of
self-discipline.

Our motivation will have an eternal perspective when we draw
from the Holy Spirit, and He will give us the strength to, “…run with
perseverance the race marked out for us.” (Hebrews 12:1)

Can God change
your life?

God has made it
possible for you to know Him, and experience an amazing
change in your own life.

Discover how you
can find peace with God.