Seeking Self-Discipline

 

We have a ton of temptation staring us in the face each and every day. From food to technology and everything in between, the world is a veritable playground of debaucherous activities.

We could easily overeat, overstimulate, oversleep, over speak, and flat out over-do-it without ever leaving the comfort and warmth of our homes.

Being disciplined following the example laid out for us by Jesus, can be difficult in the face of the bounty of delights which await us at our very fingertips. Even now, as you read this either in an email or on the website, you could easily click on an advertisement or another email and lose yourself in something which has no real value, but could be fun for a bit of time.

Our whole world is set up to make life easy. We have convenience stores and to home shipping. We have services which will clean your home and research your paper. We have organizations which will write resumes and restaurants which will cook all of your food. For a price, you can buy anything you want - whenever you want it.

But, the ultimate price has already been paid for each of us. Jesus bought us through his sacrifice on the cross. He didn't look for the easy way out or search out the "thing" which would give him the most pleasure in that exact moment; rather he gave up perfection for nails in his hands and a criminal's death to pay the ransom for each of our lives.

In order to redeem our salvation, all we have to do is ask Christ into our hearts and seek his perfect love and forgiveness. However, in order to honor Christ for all that he has done on our behalf and to reflect the loving relationship God has offered us, we have the obligation to turn from the wickedness of this world and seek the beautiful discipline of a right relationship with God.

For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age
Titus 2:11-12

God gave us everything. And in His salvation He has provided us the tools for living a life which honors Him.

As you begin this new year, begin to think about how your life reflects, or doesn't reflect, the relationship you have with your Savior.

Scripture

Titus 2

Quote of the Day

"We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit."
Aristotle

Question of the Day

What is one bad habit you can leave in 2011?