One of my favorite authors is Dallas Willard. I have read and re-read his books and studies over the years and watched his video lectures and addresses in awe. I appreciate his work and everything about him. Dallas Willard makes one think deeply and soulfully. He is a marvelous teacher and a true man of God. (He also reminds me of my Papa Stoess who had the best-ever hugs, snuggles and loving conversation a little granddaughter could want.)
Willard writes, "You don’t drift into discipleship to Jesus. You make a decision. But, you have to have a vision or you cannot make this decision.....Spiritual practices are not an end in themselves, but are meant to connect us to Jesus, teach us wisdom, and eventually help transform our lives. Combine Willard's platform to another writer who penned, "The alternative to discipline is disaster" and I am convinced. Are you?? Think on these things:
"Discipline should result in mercy, not misery. Some saints are awakened by a tap on the shoulder, while others need a 2x4 to the head. And whenever God needs a 2x4, Satan gets a call." - Max Lucado in For Those Tough Times
"Just because we are enduring a lot of hardship and onslaughts doesn’t mean we are suffering for doing good. Sometimes we are suffering for sticking our finger in the socket. When we are disobedient, natural consequences result, along with God’s loving hand of discipline. Though these consequences may feel like enemy opposition, they are not the same thing. On the other hand, you may be dead in the center of God’s will and experiencing great attack. If so, you must renew your confidence in God, even reminding Him of His promises to you and rehearsing the threats coming against you and your work. Take heart that you are on exactly on the right road doing exactly the right thing at exactly the right time." - Kelly Minter in Nehemiah
Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test,
he will receive the crown of life that God
has promised to those who love Him. - James 1:12
"Divine discipline, reproof and correction indicate that we have a relationship with Him. Make no mistake about it, His discipline has a method and specific design. His goal is to revive so that He can realign." - Priscilla Shirer
Lord, teach me your ways, and I will live and obey your truths.
Help me make worshiping your name the most important thing in my life.
- Psalm 86:11 ERV
"A strategic mindset is deliberate and premeditated action... Disciplined preparation involves intense personal scrutiny, including looking at ourselves to determine how our personal characteristics may help or hinder the achievement of our goals."
- Tim Irwin, Ph.D in Run with the Bulls Without Getting Trampled
We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith.
Because of the joy awaiting him, He endured the cross, disregarding its shame.
Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne. Hebrews 12:2
Mindfully, discipline ourselves and count it all joy!
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