MORE THAN CONQUERORSSample

DAY 1 – The Power of Discipline

Scripture:

Hebrews 12:10-13 NLT - For our earthly fathers disciplined us for a few years, doing the best they knew how. But God’s discipline is always good for us so that we might share in his holiness. No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening—it’s painful! But afterward, there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way. So, take a new grip with your tired hands and strengthen your weak knees. Mark out a straight path for your feet so that those who are weak and lame will not fall but become strong. '

Devotional:

Now that we know we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us, we need to live like it! Many of us think this means taking big, life-changing steps every day. While some days are like that, most of our lives consist of small, obedient steps of faith—drawing closer to Jesus bit by bit every day.

Psalm 119:105 says, "Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path." Notice it doesn't say, "A spotlight on my path that shows me my entire life." Why? Because faith requires trust in God and obedience to His Word. To remain consistently faithful, we need discipline in our lives.

This reminds me of a story about a young person who faithfully ran a school connect group for over two years without seeing much growth. It would have been easy to believe the lie that she wasn't more than a conqueror during that time. However, she disciplined herself to pursue God and His Word regardless. Finally, at a Planetboom Conference, she felt God speak to her to keep going and to stand firm when no one else would. This year alone, she has seen that connect group grow to the goal she had been praying for over two years. I believe greater things await those who live disciplined and consistent lives, doing their best for Jesus every day with what they have.

When we become disciplined in every area of life, it influences how disciplined we are in our relationship with and obedience to God. It may seem simple, like keeping our space clean, completing homework on time, or eating healthily, but these habits cultivate a desire for discipline in other areas—like reading the Word, spending time with God, or sharing our faith with others.

As we read these verses together today, consider how the author of Hebrews acknowledges that discipline can be challenging initially. Yet, through this process, if we are to live as more than conquerors, it is crucial to strengthen our faith and Christian lives.

REFLECT:

·What are the areas in our own lives, though they may be difficult, that we need to be disciplined in? Maybe it’s the music we listen to, what we say, simply making our bed, or staying consistent with this Bible plan.

PRAYER:

Jesus, help us to see the value in discipline, even when it’s tough. Give us the strength to stick with it, knowing it’s making us more like you. Guide our daily steps and help us to stay faithful in the little things that bring us closer to you. Amen.