“Father, I pray that my children may develop self-discipline, that they may live a disciplined life, doing what is right and just and fair’” (Proverbs 1:3; 1 Corinthians 9:27).
Self-discipline is a funny thing. It can be really easy or really hard. If it’s something personal that we are working towards and something that we really want, practicing self-discipline is usually fairly easy. On the contrary, being self-disciplined in an area that isn’t as important to us can be so difficult. For example, I’m training for a half marathon. I have to run on a regular basis and over the past 3 months I’ve done a fairly good job of getting out and reaching my goals. However, I don’t generally like to cook; I know it means a lot to my family for me to make dinner every day, but I could eat quesadillas or spaghetti every night. Because making dinner isn’t something that I care as much about, I’ve been pretty inconsistent with actually cooking over the past 3 months.
My prayer is that my kids would be self-disciplined in all areas of their life and that even if they’re practicing discipline for the benefit of others they will be consistent. Also, that while they are being self-disciplined they will have a servants heart and work as if for Father and with an attitude of thanksgiving and joy.
I can’t think of much that is more convicting than realizing how I want my kids to grow up and then reflecting on whether I am setting that example for them. Is my life a reflection of the behavior I am expecting out of them?
I’m going to end today with 1 Corinthians 9:26-27 in The Message, “I don’t know about you, but I’m running hard for the finish line. I’m giving it everything I’ve got. No sloppy living for me! I’m staying alert and in top condition. I’m not going to get caught napping, telling everyone else all about it and then missing out myself.”
Guest Post- Rachel Theobald
