Discipline

 

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. (Philippians 4:8-9 ESV).

 

For many people, the word “discipline” has a negative connotation. We tend to associate the word “discipline” with the idea of punishment. The Apostle Paul is very clear in our reading today that this is not the case. He does not say that we must practice these virtues (v. 8) or we will be punished. In fact he simply says we are to “practice” these things and the benefit will be God’s presence with us. He is clear in explaining that discipline is not the same as punishment. To discipline someone is to train them to develop a pattern of behavior or shape their character. It often happens by developing habits so that doing a task becomes a regular part of our life, something we do almost without effort.

 

If you have followed me for any time, you are aware that I enjoy woodworking. One of the newer additions to the machines I use regularly is a wood lathe. When I first brought the lathe home I was so excited about starting to make a few things. I have had experience with a lathe with some formal training in the use and techniques necessary, so I was not completely inexperienced. However, I was out of practice since that training was over forty years ago. In the correct use of the word, I was undisciplined. I have found the more I practice with different woods and tools, using the right technique for each, It is easier and easier to turn a beautiful piece of work. That’s precisely how God wants us to be in our journey through life: practiced, or disciplined.

 

In our text for today, Paul instructs the Christians in Philippi to practice habits that will help them experience God’s peace. He asks them to learn to seek God through disciplines such as prayer, worship, and the study of all that is true and right. They are to develop habits that may initially seem awkward and difficult but will help train them so that they may develop the character that God intends for them. In the coming days we’ll look more specifically at these principles. Today could I encourage you to consider today’s reading more carefully. Are these the things you are developing in your life? I find it easier to begin at the beginning. That beginning is always in prayer and meditation. Ask yourself if these are the things you are giving your time to develop in your life? We are after all what we give our time to!