March MannessSample

Discipline and Practice

Scripture: 1 Timothy 4:7-8 - "Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness; for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come."

The difference between good and great players on the basketball court often comes down to discipline and practice. It's not just talent that elevates a player; it's their commitment to rigorous training, constant improvement, and mastering the fundamentals of the game. This discipline principle in sports parallels the Christian discipline of cultivating a godly life.

The Apostle Paul reminds Timothy—and through him, all of us—that while physical training has some value, spiritual training is of infinite value, both in this life and the next. Just as athletes discipline their bodies and practice their skills to excel in their sport, Christians are called to train themselves in godliness. This training involves regular prayer, studying the Word, practicing obedience, and living out the teachings of Christ in everyday life.

Discipline in the Christian walk is not about legalism or earning God's favor; it's about growing in faith and love, becoming more like Christ, and being prepared to fulfill God's purposes. Just as a disciplined athlete experiences growth in their abilities and tremendous success on the court, a disciplined believer grows in spiritual maturity and effectiveness in their witness for Christ.

However, as with athletic training, spiritual discipline requires consistency, effort, and sometimes sacrifice. There will be days when reading the Bible and praying feels like going through the motions, much like a basketball player might feel during a particularly grueling practice. Yet, it is in these moments of perseverance that growth occurs. By consistently dedicating ourselves to spiritual practices, we develop a deeper relationship with God, better understand His Word and become more equipped to face life's challenges with faith and grace.

Brother, the call to discipline in our spiritual lives is not a burden but a blessing. It's an invitation to experience the fullness of life that comes from walking closely with God. Just as an athlete sees the fruits of their labor in improved performance and victories on the court, we too will see the fruits of spiritual discipline in a life marked by peace, strength, and godly influence.

Reflection Questions:

• What area of your spiritual life could benefit from more discipline and practice? How might this impact your relationship with God and others?
• Reflect on when discipline in your spiritual practices led to personal growth or a deeper understanding of God. What did you learn from that experience?

Challenge:

Choose one spiritual discipline—prayer, Bible study, fasting, or another practice—and commit to engaging daily for the next week. Set specific goals for yourself, such as the time of day you'll practice it and what you hope to achieve. Write a journal about your experiences, challenges, and any insights you gain through this commitment.