Fanatic DisciplineNäide

Choices

In today’s world, we are expected to look out for our self-interests, often encouraged to take the easy way out, and giving up on something is met with an understanding nod. We meet more people who would discourage us from leading a disciplined life, rather than people who would encourage us.

Ultimately, living a disciplined life comes down to our choices. We have to give up our old, disarrayed life and live a disciplined, structured life. It does not happen at a moment’s notice – it’s a lifelong process. Every moment we have to choose to do what is good and right in the sight of God. Overcoming the constant pull of worldly desires to please our Lord is not at all an easy thing to do. Even when we face life’s trials and are tempted to look out for our self-interests, just as the world expects us to, our choice should always be to do the right thing because whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for them, it is a sin. (Jas 4:17)

In India, being late is a norm. It’s jokingly known as the ‘Indian Standard Time.’ I make it a point to be on time in the office and any scheduled meetings every day. Usually, I am the only one in the conference room at the appointed time. I have taken a lot of good-natured ribbing for this and even sarcastic comments that I make others look bad. But, I choose every day to be on time for all my appointments as is humanly possible.

We are called to live happily and fulfilled lives. Let us discipline our thoughts, speech, behavior, body, and actions to reflect Christ in every aspect of our lives and inspire others through our lives. We need to pray daily that we make the right choices and that our actions align with God’s discipline in every circumstance. We can be a blessing to our friends, neighbors, and coworkers and a gift to ourselves.

Dear Lord, help me choose Your purposes. Amen