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DISCIPLINE-2

Text: 1 Cor. 9:25

All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize.

If the athletes are disciplined in their training just to win a prize that will fade away, how much more a disciple that is pursuing imperishable prize.

Many christians are not aware that they are in a race. Are you aware that you are in a race? Apostle Paul knew this for a fact, hence he said, *"...I run with purpose in every step..."* (1Corinthians 9:26).

Are you also running your own race with a purpose in every step? If you are, then you will also do one thing that Paul did-discipline your body like an athlete. 

Unlike the normal race (in contest) which  you are familiar with, the  race I am talking about is that which God has set before you (us), and such must be run with endurance. 

In the race of 'Life' which God has set before you, it is required that you put your body under discipline (control). This is one thing that no one else can do for you except yourself.

You are the only one who can put your body under discipline. It is after you have presented yourself that God can take you up for pruning, and then bring forth the fruit.

You need to know that it is not your discipline that get the work done, but it brings you to a position where the Lord can accept and work on you.

For instance, a farmer had to prepare the ground for planting before he puts a seed into the ground. While it is God's responsibility to cause the seed to grow, it is the farmer's responsibility to cultivate the ground. 

In the same vein, discipline is not what brings out the fruit of spirituality in you, but it is the preparation which you must do in order for God to bring about the fruit.

It is your responsibility to put your body under control, it is God's to bring forth the fruit.

Bible Reading:

Hebrews 12:6-11.

PRAYER FOCUS

Father Lord, I receive the grace to deny self and carry my cross daily.

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