The Heart of Christian Discipline: Deepening Relationship with God

The True Purpose of Christian Discipline

In the realm of Christian discipline, the focus should not be on self-improvement. Although we may have the inclination to make "growth in Christ" the ultimate goal of our spiritual practices, there is something far greater that deserves our explicit attention.

Now, don't get me wrong, growing in Christ is undoubtedly a wonderful thing. It is a crucial aspect of our faith journey, as the apostle Paul joyfully proclaimed to the Thessalonians: "Your faith is growing abundantly, and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing" (2 Thessalonians 1:3). Hebrews also emphasizes the necessity of holiness: "Strive... for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord" (Hebrews 12:14). Peter even commands us to "grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (2 Peter 3:18).

There is no denying the importance, value, and biblical mandate to grow in Christ. However, we must often remind ourselves, and others, of the true focus of our Christian discipline: it is not primarily about our own growth, but rather about a deepening relationship with God Himself.

Discovering the Heart of Christian Discipline

When we think of discipline, we often envision rigorous training and self-control. We may even associate it with a sense of striving and effort. While there is an element of discipline that involves personal commitment and effort, the heart of Christian discipline is not about our own achievements or self-improvement. Rather, it is about surrendering to God's transforming work in our lives.

Consider the words of Jesus in Matthew 11:28-30:

"Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."

Jesus invites us to find rest in Him. Christian discipline, then, is not about striving in our own strength but rather surrendering to the gentle and lowly heart of Christ. It is about allowing Him to carry the burdens we so often try to bear on our own.

The Transformative Power of Relationship

Imagine a young child learning to ride a bike. Initially, they may struggle to find their balance and pedal with confidence. They may even fall a few times. But in the presence of a loving and patient parent, the child's journey to becoming a skilled cyclist becomes a transformative experience.

Similarly, our journey of Christian discipline is not a solitary endeavor. It is a transformative process that takes place within the context of a deepening relationship with God. As we surrender to His guidance and depend on His strength, we are transformed from struggling novices to mature disciples.

Consider the words of the apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 3:18:

"And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit."

Our transformation is not a result of our own efforts, but rather a work of the Holy Spirit within us. It is as we behold the glory of the Lord, through prayer, meditation on His Word, and fellowship with other believers, that we are gradually conformed to His image.

The Ultimate Goal: Intimacy with God

While growth in Christ is important, it is not an end in itself. The ultimate goal of Christian discipline is intimacy with God. It is about knowing Him more deeply, experiencing His presence, and aligning our hearts with His will.

Jesus, in His high priestly prayer, expresses this desire for intimacy with His followers:

"And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent" (John 17:3).

Eternal life, according to Jesus, is not merely about living forever but about knowing God and Jesus Christ. It is about entering into a relationship of intimacy and communion with the Creator of the universe.

As we engage in spiritual disciplines, let us shift our focus from striving for personal growth to pursuing a deeper relationship with God. Let us seek to know Him more intimately, to experience His love and grace in our lives, and to align our desires with His.

Conclusion

Christian discipline is not about self-improvement or personal achievements. It is about surrendering to God's transforming work in our lives and deepening our relationship with Him. While growth in Christ is important, it is ultimately a means to an end – the end being intimacy with God. As we engage in spiritual disciplines, let us fix our gaze on the One who invites us to find rest in Him and allows us to become more like Him. Let us seek to know Him more intimately and experience the abundant life He offers.