Embracing Discipline: Growing in Godliness and Grace

Redeeming Discipline

Have you ever encountered a friend whose approach to the Christian life seems somewhat extreme? They seem to be too strict, overly disciplined. It can make you squirm a little bit, right?

You may have heard them say something about beating their own body — figuratively, of course. But still, their language can be uncomfortable. Words like "strain," "agonize," "struggle," "labor," and "strive" are common in their vocabulary. It can make you wonder if they truly understand the grace we have in Christ.

However, despite their intensity, these individuals often celebrate God's grace more than you do. They are joyful and worshipful, not gloomy or obsessive. Their seriousness is tempered with a sense of merriment, and they exhibit a remarkable peace. They are warm and friendly towards others.

But still, they never seem to let up. They read their Bible, pray, and speak of spiritual things with an earnestness that can embarrass you. They talk about fighting sin as if they had a sword strapped to their thigh, ready for battle.

So, what can we learn from these seemingly extreme individuals? How can we understand and appreciate their approach to the Christian life?

The Call to Discipline

While their approach may appear extreme, we must remember that the Bible calls us to discipline and self-control. In 1 Corinthians 9:27, the apostle Paul writes, "But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified."

This verse reminds us that as Christians, we are called to discipline ourselves and keep our bodies under control. It is not about earning our salvation through works, but rather about living a life that honors God and reflects His character.

Discipline is not a popular topic in our culture today. We live in a world that values instant gratification and self-indulgence. But as followers of Christ, we are called to a higher standard. We are called to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him (Matthew 16:24).

The Purpose of Discipline

So why is discipline important? Why should we strive for self-control and discipline in our Christian walk?

First and foremost, discipline helps us grow in our relationship with God. It is through discipline that we develop a deeper intimacy with Him. Just as an athlete disciplines their body for the sake of victory, we discipline ourselves for the sake of godliness (1 Timothy 4:7-8).

Discipline also helps us resist temptation and overcome sin. In Ephesians 4:22-24, Paul writes, "Put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness."

By practicing discipline and self-control, we are able to put off our old sinful nature and put on the new self that is created in the likeness of God. It is through discipline that we align our lives with God's will and experience true righteousness and holiness.

The Balance of Grace and Discipline

While discipline is important, it is essential to maintain a healthy balance with the grace of God. We must remember that our salvation is not based on our own efforts or works, but solely on the grace of God (Ephesians 2:8-9).

Discipline should never become legalism or self-righteousness. It should be an outpouring of our gratitude for the grace we have received. We discipline ourselves because we love God and desire to live a life that pleases Him.

As we strive for discipline, we must remember that it is God who empowers us to live a disciplined life. In Philippians 2:13, Paul writes, "For it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure."

God's grace enables us to discipline ourselves and live a life that brings glory to Him. We cannot do it on our own strength, but through the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit.

Embracing the Call to Discipline

So, how can we embrace the call to discipline in our own lives?

1. Renew our minds: As Romans 12:2 tells us, we are to "not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind." By immersing ourselves in God's Word, we allow our minds to be renewed and transformed.


2. Set priorities: We need to prioritize our relationship with God and make time for prayer, Bible study, and spiritual disciplines. By intentionally setting aside time for these activities, we demonstrate our commitment to discipline.


3. Seek accountability: Find a trusted friend or mentor who can hold you accountable in your pursuit of discipline. Someone who can encourage you, challenge you, and pray for you as you strive to grow in godliness.


4. Practice self-control: Discipline requires self-control. We must learn to say "no" to our fleshly desires and choose what is right and pleasing to God. This may involve making sacrifices and denying ourselves for the sake of obedience.


5. Remember God's grace: Finally, always remember that it is God's grace that enables us to live a disciplined life. When we fall short, His grace is there to pick us up and give us the strength to continue. We are not saved by our discipline, but by the grace of God.

So, let us learn from those who embrace discipline in their Christian walk. Let us strive for self-control, discipline, and godliness, not as a means of earning our salvation, but as a response to the grace we have received. In doing so, we will experience the joy, peace, and transformation that comes from living a disciplined life in Christ.