01/16/2023
The Power of Vision Part 16.
January 16th, 2023.
The Power of Self Discipline.
Text: Galatians 5:17.
“For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.”
The power of vision is released through practicing the art of self discipline. The difference between the average and the successful is how they apply themselves towards their dreams or goals. It was Jim Rohn that said, “Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishments.” You are not defeated when you lose, you are defeated when you quit, and it takes a lot to stay focused and determined to realize your vision.
Most of the high achievers you see today, lives a very disciplined lifestyle. I read about Richard Branson, and his daily routines that he has followed for many years. He gets up very early while sun is just rising and seat down to think, meditate and journal his thoughts. You don’t just stumble on success, you work your ways through many ups and downs, to get there. This is why many people are content with average and mediocrity, because they are unwilling to stretch themselves out of their comfort zone. Elbert Hubbard said this about self discipline, “Self-discipline is the ability to make yourself do what you should do, when you should do it, whether you like it or not.” Over the years, I’ve developed some habits that are helping me to get productive in many ways.
Jesus had to maintain a high level of self discipline on his way to accomplishing his divine mandate. From spending quality time with his Father in prayer, to avoiding the pressure of yielding to men’s applause, he was focused and courageous. Self Discipline is built by consistently performing small acts of courage. When you are motivated to put your all into whatever it takes to achieve your goals in life. All the sacrifices that goes into reaching your goals pays off in the end.
I often wondered how Jesus was able to hold it together until it was time to start his public ministry? What was his preparation like? The wisdom and the management skills required to manage a growing carpentry business and an evangelical team? All these and other things was achieved through self discipline. Daniel refused to yield to the pressure from the conspirators, he exercised the discipline of prayer. The bane of many gifted and skillful people is indiscipline. It take self discipline to enjoy the best of God. All the spiritual exercises requires self discipline. From prayer to fasting, tithing, fellowship, and even walking in love. God has wired us to live a disciplined life by the fruit of the Spirit called self control. It takes more than wishful thinking to become a meaningful person in life.
I’m committed to a lifelong learning, as I try to read daily. No matter how busy my day was or how late I was working I still create the time to read for twenty minutes before going to bed. It takes discipline not to break the chains that is connected to my growth and self development, that is my commitment. In life, you are either making excuses or making progress, you cannot have both at the same time. What are the values you’ve imbibed to help you stay on the right path in your journey to purpose? Only those who are disciplined are able to walk in dominion and enjoy bountiful harvest. According to the Word of God, God wants us to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives.
Ponder on this: Your commitment to living a life of discipline will set you up for God’s best in every way. Make up your mind to follow God’s blueprint for a life of continuous growth and impacts. Get into God’s Word and receive the direction you need to fulfill your assignment. It takes self discipline to keep seeking the kingdom of God and his righteousness daily.
Confession:
I declare that I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. I’ll live a spirit controlled life, therefore, I’ll exercise self control and discipline. God has given me the grace to fulfill his vision for my life, by engaging the benefits of self discipline. I receive the wisdom of God to be effective in the pursuit of my purpose, as I harness the opportunities around me. I will not be ruled by my flesh or be subjected to my feelings and desires. I am more than a conqueror in Jesus name. Amen.
