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(Presented by Lisa Bishop)
In the Bible, discipline refers to moral training, instruction, and correction; and the outcome is spiritual growth, character development, and Christian maturity. Discipline is not meant to be a killjoy. Quite the opposite. As Hebrews 12:11 says, “No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening—it’s painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way.”
While all of God’s Word is full of rich and practical training and instruction for our everyday lives the book of Proverbs is solely dedicated to this end. The opening verses of Proverbs say,
Their purpose is to teach people wisdom and discipline, to help them understand the insights of the wise. Their purpose is to teach people to live disciplined and successful lives, to help them do what is right, just, and fair. These proverbs will give insight to the simple, knowledge and discernment to the young. Let the wise listen to these proverbs and become even wiser. Let those with understanding receive guidance by exploring the meaning in these proverbs and parables, the words of the wise and their riddles. Fear of the Lord is the foundation of true knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline. (Proverbs 1:1-7, NLT).
The bottom line in these opening verses is don’t be a fool, respect and revere the Lord, desire wisdom and discipline.
The book of Proverbs is a reminder that you must be in the Word of God, meditating on biblical truths, so that you grow in wisdom and spiritual maturity. This devotional is a spiritual snack; but make sure you make time to feast on the Scriptures so that your character in Christ grows and you reap the full benefits of thriving as a beloved daughter or son of God.
And when it comes to discipline and character development, in addition to spending time hanging out in the Word, also be mindful of who you hang out with. As Proverbs 1:10 warns, “My child, if sinners entice you, turn your back on them!” In other words, if someone’s lifestyle and behaviors draw you away from Jesus, reevaluate your relationships. Studies have shown that you are the average of the five people you are with the most. Who you spend time with influences the person you eventually become. The kind of people you interact with has an impact on your thoughts, beliefs and behaviors. So be disciplined and invest time in the Word, and be vigilant with who you do life with. Choose your companions wisely.