Discipline

The Discipline of the Lord

The Discipline of the Lord

Discipline is often a difficult word to hear. We associate it with punishment, correction, and hardship.

However, the Bible teaches us that God’s discipline is a loving and necessary part of our spiritual growth.

 No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.

Hebrews 12:11

The Purpose of Discipline

In Hebrews 12:11, we learn that discipline is meant to produce a harvest of righteousness and peace.

It’s not about punishment for punishment’s sake; it’s about training us to become more like Christ.

  • Removing Sin: Discipline can help us identify and remove sinful habits or attitudes that are hindering our spiritual growth.
  • Developing Character: Trials and hardships can help us develop qualities like patience, perseverance, and humility.
  • Deepening Our Relationship with God: When we go through difficult times, we can learn to rely more on God and trust in His love.

The Painful Process

It’s important to remember that discipline is often painful. It can be difficult to endure trials and hardships.

But we must trust that God knows what is best for us and that His discipline is ultimately a loving act.

Reward of Righteousness and Peace

The reward for embracing God’s discipline is a harvest of righteousness and peace.

When we persevere through trials, we are strengthened in our faith and become more like Christ.

While discipline may be painful in the moment, it is a necessary part of our spiritual growth.

By trusting in God and persevering through trials, you can experience the harvest of righteousness and peace that He promises.

Upside Down: 15 Week Bible Study

 You Have Been Seated with Christ in the Heavenly Realms

God’s great hope for us is not simply the forgiveness of sins and a place in heaven when we die; but rather, He wants us totally restored, in heart, mind and soul . . . NOW!

As we enter into this amazing adventure with God, we soon recognize that we are a part of something tremendous, something that is beyond our earthy perspective, and we are transported into the heavens with Christ; we live, breathe, and find our being in Him!

This Bible study will help you rediscover how it all began, what happened in the Garden of Eden, who is the Devil really, and what is he up to today.

  • Head into the heavenly realms and discover profound truths concerning your relationship with God, and His incredible plan for you.
  • Search your heart, preparing for a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. In this study, you will enter into God’s armory, suiting up with the whole armor of God.
  • Discover the Keys to the Kingdom given to you, and learn what they unlock; discovering your true nature in Christ, the authority given, the Sword of the Spirit, the covering armor, and the mission ahead, you will truly learn to pray . . . Upside Down!

Get your copy Today – Pray Upside Down

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Discipline
Discipline

Discipline

Revelation 3:19 offers a challenging yet essential truth:

“Those whom I love, I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent.”

Revelation 3:19

This verse might seem harsh at first glance, but it reveals a profound aspect of God’s love.

God’s Love Expressed Through Discipline

This verse emphasizes:

  • God’s Love: Discipline is a sign of God’s love for His children.
  • Need for Repentance: Acknowledging our shortcomings and turning away from sin is crucial.
  • Call to Earnestness: A sincere desire for spiritual growth is essential.

The Purpose of Discipline

God disciplines us for our benefit:

  • Correction: To redirect us from harmful paths.
  • Growth: To foster maturity and spiritual development.
  • Purification: To refine our character and deepen our faith.

Responding to Divine Discipline

How should we respond to God’s discipline?

  • Humility: Acknowledge our shortcomings and receive correction with grace.
  • Repentance: Turn away from sin and embrace God’s forgiveness.
  • Zealous Pursuit: Seek to grow spiritually and deepen our relationship with God.

Revelation 3:19 is not a condemnation but a call to deeper intimacy with God. By embracing His discipline, we experience His love and grow in our faith.

Upside Down: 15 Week Bible Study

 You Have Been Seated with Christ in the Heavenly Realms

God’s great hope for us is not simply the forgiveness of sins and a place in heaven when we die; but rather, He wants us totally restored, in heart, mind and soul . . . NOW!

As we enter into this amazing adventure with God, we soon recognize that we are a part of something tremendous, something that is beyond our earthy perspective, and we are transported into the heavens with Christ; we live, breathe, and find our being in Him!

This Bible study will help you rediscover how it all began, what happened in the Garden of Eden, who is the Devil really, and what is he up to today.

  • Head into the heavenly realms and discover profound truths concerning your relationship with God, and His incredible plan for you.
  • Search your heart, preparing for a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. In this study, you will enter into God’s armory, suiting up with the whole armor of God.
  • Discover the Keys to the Kingdom given to you, and learn what they unlock; discovering your true nature in Christ, the authority given, the Sword of the Spirit, the covering armor, and the mission ahead, you will truly learn to pray . . . Upside Down!

Get your copy today! – Pray Upside Down

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Discipline
Wine and Folly

Wine and Folly

The Bible promotes moderation and a healthy lifestyle. Proverbs 20:1 offers a clear warning about the dangers of alcohol abuse:

“Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, and whoever is led astray by them is not wise.”

Proverbs 20:1

More Than a Buzz

This proverb doesn’t condemn the moderate consumption of alcohol, but it highlights the dangers of excessive drinking. The verse describes the following consequences:

  • Mocking: Alcohol can impair judgment and lead to behavior that is foolish or embarrassing.
  • Brawling: Alcohol can lower inhibitions and increase aggression, leading to violence.
  • Lack of Wisdom: Those who are controlled by alcohol cannot make wise decisions.

Living a Wise Life

Proverbs 20:1 encourages us to live a life guided by wisdom and self-control:

  • Make Wise Choices: Choose to avoid situations or temptations that could lead to overindulgence.
  • Know Your Limits: Be aware of how alcohol affects you and set boundaries for yourself.
  • Seek Help if Needed: If you struggle with alcohol abuse, don’t be afraid to seek professional help.

Importance of Self-Control

The concept of self-control is important throughout the Bible. It’s not just about alcohol, but about managing our desires and impulses in a healthy way.

How to Apply This to Your Life

  • Practice Moderation: Whether it’s alcohol or anything else, enjoy things in moderation.
  • Develop Healthy Habits: Focus on activities that nourish your body, mind, and spirit.
  • Seek Accountability: Surround yourself with people who will support your healthy lifestyle choices.

Proverbs 20:1 reminds us that true wisdom involves making choices that benefit our overall well-being. By practicing self-control and avoiding the dangers of alcohol abuse, we can live a life that is both wise and fulfilling

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Discipline
Don’t Lose Your Life Trying to Save It

Don’t Lose Your Life Trying to Save It

Have you ever felt the pressure to live up to a certain image or expectation?

Social media portrays a highlight reel of perfect lives, and it’s easy to get caught up in the pursuit of external validation.

The Gospel of Mark 8:35 offers a challenging but important message from Jesus that disrupts this worldly perspective:

“For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me and for the gospel will save it.”

Mark 8:35

Understanding the Context

This verse appears in a section of Mark where Jesus is beginning to openly discuss his upcoming persecution and death.

He’s preparing his disciples for the challenges they’ll face in following Him.

Redefining Success

Jesus’ statement here is a paradox. He’s challenging the worldly definition of success – focusing on self-preservation and accumulating possessions. Instead, He proposes a new way of living:

  • Self-denial: This doesn’t mean neglecting our basic needs, but rather being willing to let go of desires and ambitions that conflict with following Jesus.
  • Following Jesus: True discipleship involves aligning our priorities with Jesus’ teachings.
  • Sacrifice: There may be times when following Jesus requires us to make sacrifices – of our time, comfort, or possessions.

How Can This Apply to Us Today?

Mark 8:35 is a call to examine our priorities:

  • What truly matters to you? Is your life centered on following Jesus, or are you chasing worldly pursuits?
  • Are you willing to step outside your comfort zone? Following Jesus may require us to challenge our assumptions and embrace new ways of living.

Living Out Mark 8:35

Here are some ways to embrace the message of self-denial and sacrifice in your life:

  • Identify areas of self-absorption. Reflect on your habits and desires. Are there areas where you can let go and prioritize following Jesus?
  • Serve others. Look for opportunities to use your time, talents, and resources to help those in need.
  • Stand up for your faith. Following Jesus may not always be popular. Be prepared to live out your beliefs even when it’s difficult.

Mark 8:35 isn’t a call for self-deprecation, but a call to live a life centered on something bigger than ourselves. Following Jesus requires a willingness to let go of some things to embrace a purpose-filled life.

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Discipline, Faith
Taming the Tongue

Taming the Tongue

Let’s face it, our tongues can be troublemakers. We’ve all said things we regret in the heat of the moment, or maybe gossiped a little more than intended. In James 3:6, the Bible offers a powerful image to describe the power of our words:

“The tongue is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.”

James 3:6

Ouch! That’s a Strong Message!

James isn’t exaggerating. Words have incredible power.

They can build up or tear down, encourage or discourage, heal or wound. But just like we can control a fire, we can also learn to control our tongues.

How to Tame the Tongue-Flame

Here are some tips to turn your fiery tongue into a force for good:

  • Think Before You Speak: Take a moment to gather your thoughts before blurting something out.
  • Choose Kindness: Ask yourself, “Would I want this said to me?” Kindness should be the default setting for our words.
  • The Power of Forgiveness: If you’ve misspoken, apologize sincerely and ask for forgiveness.
  • Speak Life, Not Lies: Our words have the power to create or destroy. Use them to build others up and spread truth.
  • Fill Your Heart with Good Stuff: What you feed your mind and heart shows up in your words. Fill yourself with God’s word and positive influences.

Taming your tongue takes practice, but it’s worth the effort. By following these tips and relying on God’s strength, you can transform your words into a flame of encouragement and love, setting the world around you ablaze in a positive way.

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Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Discipline