For the musician, discipline is important. Time must be devoted to practice and practice and practice. There are times I find challenging sections of symphony music which I must play over and over again; sometimes beginning at a slow tempo which is gradually quickened. Then, when I finally get those measures right, I don’t exclaim “Got it!” and stop. I usually run through it again several more times, walk away for a while, and then return to see if I can jump right back in and easily do it again. It is only then that I know whether I have truly mastered the section or not.
For the athlete, discipline is important. Paul noted this in using it as an analogy for the spiritual life. (1 Corinthians 9:24-27) The discipline of eating right and ongoing training to build endurance is necessary, which is also true regarding our spiritual health.
Quite often when we see the word discipline, we immediately think of punishment. However, in God allowing us to experience and go through certain things, there is a disciplining of the life that brings strengthening and we are made better because of it. Such was James’ point regarding the benefit of trials. (James 1:2-4) In the challenging and testing of life, our character is strengthened and proven or revealed for what it is.
In noting the endurance of Jesus and the benefit of that in the life of believers, the writer of Hebrews stated. . .
“(3) Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted. (4) In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. (5) And have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons? “My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor be weary when reproved by him. (6) For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.” (7) It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline?” (Hebrews 12:3-7 ESV)
The testing of our faith and the discipline of endurance brings the benefit of revealing the genuineness of our faith and strengthens our life to press on even in the midst of trials.
The Hebrew writer went on to state. . .
“(11) For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.” (Hebrews 12:11 ESV)
Yes, there is reason behind the discipline that enhances our ability to endure. The disciplined musician feels as though they have had an aerobic workout but know they will be prepared for the symphony performance. The disciplined runner practices and feels the tightening of muscles developing to endure the race to come. As a disciplined disciple of Jesus let us press on knowing we are obtaining the outcome of our faith; the salvation of our souls. (1 Peter 1:6-9) What comes from enduring will be worth it. May we continue straining toward what is ahead (Philippians 3:13) as we press on in the steps of Jesus!
Have a great day CONTINUING THE TRAINING IN RIGHTEOUSNESS!
Carl
