POWER OF DISCIPLINE FOR IMPACT

“But I DISCIPLINE my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others...” – 1 Corinthians 9:27a

There is a unique place that the POWER of DISCIPLINE for IMPACT occupies in the fulfilment of destiny: “But I DISCIPLINE my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified” (1 Cor.9:27). Here, Paul used the analogy of a race and a boxing match to illustrate the importance of self-discipline and the impact of a disciplined life. While many participate in the race, only one wins, and athletes train intensely to win a perishable prize. Similarly, Believers should pursue spiritual growth with dedication and self-control, not for fleeting rewards, but eternal prize.  

Discipline in God’s Kingdon relates to training and spiritual growth rather than to punishment. This training involves aligning oneself with God’s Will, resisting the flesh, and ultimately being equipped and enabled to endure, persist and thrive in faith. Discipline, while not always enjoyable or palatable in the moment, I a key to spiritual development, righteousness, and peace: “Now no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it” (Heb.12:11). Discipline is Power, but not mere natural power. It is the Holy Spirit that empowers Believers to practice self-discipline, leading to maturity and a closer relationship and walk with God.

God disciplines those He loves: “My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord, nor detest His correction. For whom the Lord loves He corrects, just as a father the son in whom he delights” (Pro.3:11-12). Divine Discipline, like a father’s training, is for our benefit and maturity. Also, practicing spiritual devotional disciplines like prayer, Bible study, meditation, and fellowship with other Believers are essential for cultivating self-discipline and holiness. The Holy Spirit empowers us to overcome weakness and fear, and to manifest self-discipline, which also is a fruit of the spirit (Gal.5:22). 2 Peter 1:5-6a instructs: “But also for this very reason, giving all DILIGENCE, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge, self-control...”

God’s expectation is for us Believers to show commitment to our spiritual journey that’s similar to the dedication and discipline of athletes competing for a physical prize. Paul encouraged Believers to strive for a lasting reward with the same dedication they would give to a physical race. As Paul admonished, we must avoid aimless living and unproductive efforts. He used the metaphor of “buffeting in the body” and “subduing it” to illustrate the need to train and control one’s physical desires. Paul’s main concern was that after proclaiming the Gospel to others, he himself should not become disqualified. We must give more commitment to our faith in Jesus than a world-class athlete would give to winning the game.