Being Self-Disiciplined

To this end I also labor, striving according to His working which works in me mightily.

Colossians 1:29

As a Christian, learn to cultivate self–discipline. Here are some practical ways to reach that objective:

Start small. In your home, for example, begin the housekeeping in the main bedroom. When that discipline is established, extend it to the rest of your home.
Be punctual. Make it a habit to be on time.
Deal with difficult tasks first. If you do the hardest jobs first, you will not leave them undone.
Be organized. Instead of merely reacting to circumstances, plan your day and your week.
Be grateful for correction. Don’t shun constructive criticism; welcome it as a means for self–improvement.
Practice self–denial. This can begin in simple ways—substitute a healthy snack for junk food. Discipline in the physical realm carries over to the spiritual realm.
Take on responsibilities. Welcoming a new opportunity forces you to be organized.

These may seem insignificant, but they can be good practice in becoming a better servant of Christ.

MacArthur, J. (2001). Truth for today : A daily touch of God's grace (Page 204). Nashville, Tenn.: J. Countryman.

Lessons Learned: The goal of sanctification is not easy. It first requires the enabling power of the Holy Spirit. It also requires much effort on our part to practice the spiritual disciplines which will help us to grow spiritually. But it is an achievable goal if we make a plan and stick to it. We know that all our "labor in the Lord is not in vain" (1 Cor 15:58) and that we can do all things through Christ who gives us strength (Phil 4:13).

Applications: Develop an action plan, an OAT (Objective, Activity, Timetable) for accomplishing self-discipline goals. Organizing and writing down your plan will help you to stay focused on it. Put a high priority on spiritual disciplines above any worldly objectives.

Prayer Subjects: Pray for the power of the Holy Spirit to help me in achieving the goal of sanctification. Pray for wisdom in developing an action plan and pray for faithfulness and diligence in following that plan.

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