Whenever I read Hebrews 12, especially verse six, I think, “Ouch!” For the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes each one he accepts as his child (NLT). I enjoy the Biblical themes of joy, love, answered prayer, and God’s blessings, but I hesitate with God’s discipline. My attitude is, “Well, God, let’s get it over […]
OUCH! The Discipline of God Read More »
Did you know that the Apostle Paul commands us to go to the gym? He writes in 1 Timothy 4:7… Discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness (NASB1995). Train yourself to be godly (NIV). To be godly, go to the gym (OGV). 1 Timothy 4:7 reads “discipline” in the NASB and “train” in the NIV, but
The Bible Says, “Go to the Gym!” Read More »
Discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness (1 Timothy 4:7, NASB1995). We know the disciplines of prayer and Bible study are important for growth in holiness. But what is the principle of specificity? Specificity undergirds the effectiveness of all scriptural disciplines. Yes, without practicing “specificity” in prayers, Bible application, fellowship, and disciple-making — these disciplines will
The Principle of Specificity Read More »
But I buffet my body and bring it into bondage: lest by any means, after that I have preached to others, I myself should be rejected (1 Corinthians 9:27, ASV). Interesting that a Greek word in several versions of the New Testament is translated “buffet,” and this same English word “buffet” is used by restaurants
Resisting The Mexican Buffet Read More »
Gratitude is a discipline that enables hope in dark places. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God (Philippians 4:6 NASB95). Paul writes that we are to present our request with thanksgiving. Let me restate the implication – as we ask, we are to
The Discipline Of Thankful Read More »
What! Who celebrates discipline? I’ve had a love/hate relationship with discipline my entire life. When I was younger, it was a hate relationship. I experienced discipline often… from parents, teachers at school, Sunday School teachers, coaches, relatives, and those I had just met. It didn’t take long for anyone to note that I needed discipline.
Celebration of Discipline! Read More »