dis·ci·pline
( P ) Pronunciation
Key (ds-pln)
n.
1. Training expected to produce a specific character
or pattern of behavior, especially training that produces moral
or mental improvement.
2. Controlled behavior resulting from disciplinary training;
self-control.
3.
a. Control obtained by enforcing compliance or order.
b. A systematic method to obtain obedience: a military
discipline.
c. A state of order based on submission
to rules and authority.
This definition (provided
by dictionary.com)
I think says quite a bit and I feel it is important
to address this issue as thoroughly as possible. I think to
have or to not have true discipline in our lives not only determines
the quality of life that we are to enjoy but it also shows exactly
how much of a "disciple" of Christ we really are.
I looked up the word discipline in a biblical
encyclopedia and only found "disciple." I read it
anyway because I knew that one was the root of the other. What
I found was this: the word disciple implies the acceptance
in mind and life of the views and practices of the teacher.
Now to a Christian it should be a given that Christ is the teacher.
I think what is then to be determined is have we learned and
applied the knowledge that he has provided.
Looking at some of the bolded words from the
definition, we first come to "specific character."
Galatians 5 verse 16 begins: "This I say then, Walk
in the Spirit,........" Then in verse 22 we read:
"But BEAUTY is love, joy, peace, longsuffering,
gentleness, goodness, faith,....." into verse 23,
"....Meekness, temperance:..." This should be our
character. Consistently displaying his character shows discipline.
The definition goes on to say a character: "...that
produces moral or mental improvement." When
you are disciplined you are mentally capable of exemplifying
BEAUTY that the Lord speaks of. When we follow
his word the trials and tribulations of everyday life that we
encounter will no longer have the same effect on us. We will
have much better self-control, which includes control
over our flesh as well as our emotions.
You may know as well as I do that this is not
always as easy as it sounds. That's why it may be necessary
to have a systematic method in place before actually
handling a particular situation or making a choice.
This may mean simply, being "..swift to hear, slow to speak,
slow to wrath: " according to James 1:19. To others
it may mean to pray. Philippians 4:6 reads: "Be
careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication
with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God."
It may mean both.
In closing on this subject, to have discipline
requires submission.
Whether it be at home, at work, at school or at church we are
always submitted to someone. But as it pertains to being A Godly
Woman, God calls us to be a disciple. A true disciple "of
God" is one that is submitted to the will "of God",
and the will of God can only be found in his word.
