A Purposeful and Disciplined Life

February 5, 2024
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Jesus Christ, in Matthew 6:33 encouraged us to set our priority right, to seek the kingdom of God and its righteousness first, approach the Christian journey with purpose and discipline. Drawing an analogy between the Christian life and a race, Paul emphasised that while all runners participate, only one receives the prize. He urged us to run in a way that secures the eternal prize.

“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore, I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.” 1 Cor 9:24-27

The fruit of the Spirit, self-discipline, is essential for successful living. Though redeemed as priests and kings to reign on the earth, indiscipline can rob any believer of their throne. (Eccl 10:5,16) Self-discipline is called for in various aspects of life, including spiritual life, work, and time management. Sustainable success requires being rooted and grounded spiritually (1 Tim 4:7-8). Study to be quiet and to do your own business. Invest the best of your time, energy, and resources in your own business (1 Thes 4:11). Time management is crucial. As Benjamin Franklin once said, ‘Dost thou love life? Then do not squander time.’ Invest your time; don’t squander it (Eph 5:16, Col 4:5).

“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

We are enlisted in the army of God’s kingdom on earth. We must be wise and diligent.
“No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier.” 2 Tim 2:4