Transformed Life: Discipline

In order to live the transformed life, The Holy Spirit gives us discipline. Richard Foster defines discipline (σωφρονισμος) as doing what we need to do, when we need to do it.

Jesus lived in total dependence on the Father. He was always where he was supposed to be, when he was supposed to be. And without a planner of any sort – electronic, paper. He didn’t even have a calendar. He always did what he needed to do, when he needed to do it. He was disciplined. But not like we think of discipline. To live like Jesus requires a radical change in a number of areas.

(1)    There is a change in priorities. Many people have their schedules pretty set. One cannot have a normal job without a schedule. Others have to-do lists. In Jesus, God’s priorities move to the top. And God’s objectives are love relationships – between God and people, and people and people. And we need to recognize how best to fulfill God’s purposes (what), the correct timing (when) and make choices appropriately. The choice involves action. Sometimes, discipline requires I mow the lawn. Sometimes, discipline requires I forgo mowing the lawn. Sometimes, discipline requires I intentionally with premeditation forgo mowing the lawn.

(2)    There is a change in how we perceive and treat interruptions. Interruptions are usually perceived as bad, a waste of time and energy. Followers of Jesus (especially professional followers of Jesus) often perceive interruptions as hindrances to completing God’s purposes. To Jesus, interruptions became the main opportunities to minister.

(3)    There is a change in how we perceive and treat ministry. Ministry is viewed as opportunities to apply God, grace and truth to life. In current church culture, people tend to organize ministry opportunities. They schedule meetings and invite people to receive God’s grace there. Jesus never organized meetings. Jesus did attend meetings. He would go somewhere – and lo and behold, a meeting would break out. But these meetings never seemed to follow one pattern. Sometimes there was a teaching. Sometimes there were healings. Sometimes he served lunch. Sometimes there was prayer. (Interestingly, a time of worship was seldom mentioned.)