Proverbs 5:22-23 tell us, “The evil deeds of the wicked ensnare them; the cords of their sins hold them fast. For lack of discipline they will die, led astray by their own great folly.” Those seem to be extreme consequences because I’ve never considered lack of discipline resulting in death or deception. But no matter how we choose to perceive this proverb, it clearly warns us that the absence of discipline leads to no good.
Recently, I’ve been trying to lose weight but just can’t seem to shake those extra pounds. I’ve blamed it on my age, my slowed metabolism, my busy daily schedule and the list of excuses goes on and on. The real reason I haven’t lost weight can clearly be attributed to lack of discipline. If I can find the time to eat, I can find the time to not eat, right? Simple as it sounds, I’m having some difficulties.
BTW – This week, I lost three pounds by reaching for my Bible instead of food when I was tempted to snack.
Dear God,
Recently, I’ve been trying to lose weight but just can’t seem to shake those extra pounds. I’ve blamed it on my age, my slowed metabolism, my busy daily schedule and the list of excuses goes on and on. The real reason I haven’t lost weight can clearly be attributed to lack of discipline. If I can find the time to eat, I can find the time to not eat, right? Simple as it sounds, I’m having some difficulties.
As I consider ways to overcome the obstacles I’ve encountered, I read Matthew 19:26 where Jesus tells us, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible,” and discover my problem.
I’ve been trying to succeed in my own strength and relying on my weak nature. Jesus tells us that if we trust in Him, we can do it; not through our own strength but through Christ who strengthens us, and His encouragement doesn’t end here. Time and time again, the Bible tells us that if we can just submit ourselves to God and trust in Him, we will not fail, even if the outcome is not what, when or how we expected as reiterated in Proverbs 3:4-6 “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
I’ve yet to meet anyone who isn’t struggling in some area of life. Whether our shortcomings lie in overindulging or underachieving, we have a source of strength to conquer our iniquities and place us on the path to perfect purpose. It’s called the Word of God; the Holy Bible. Not only do we receive divine revelation when we meditate on the Word, but we also strengthen our spirit man enabling us to take authority over our vices.
The more we read the Word, the better equipped we are to battle our carnal nature and quiet our flesh. Romans 10:17 tells us that faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God. So the next time you are hindered by your own limitations, open up the Word and be filled with the spirit of God that gives us wisdom, understanding, knowledge and strength!
The more we read the Word, the better equipped we are to battle our carnal nature and quiet our flesh. Romans 10:17 tells us that faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God. So the next time you are hindered by your own limitations, open up the Word and be filled with the spirit of God that gives us wisdom, understanding, knowledge and strength!
BTW – This week, I lost three pounds by reaching for my Bible instead of food when I was tempted to snack.
Dear God,
I thank you for the power and strength you give me when I call on the mighty name of Jesus. I pray that you bless me with discipline and self-control in all areas that might hinder me from fulfilling the perfect purpose I was created. Help me to be a source of inspiration to all who face similar struggles. In Jesus’ name I pray.
Have you heard of "principle of the path" My husband is re-reading it now and I am next. He says it is a great read about BEING who you want to be not just hoping to be. Similar to this post. Thanks for the twitter follow. Good to "meet" you!
ReplyDeleteThank you for this encouragement. It is so true that God's word will give us the resources we need to find strength to stay on His path. We must have the discipline to "do" the word and not hear it only - but that is all a part of the path of growth that God has placed us on. God bless!
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