“For the time being no discipline brings joy, but seems grievous and painful; but afterwards it yields a peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.”
Hebrews 12:11
Many people enjoy watching athletic events such as the Olympic Games, the World Series, or the Super Bowl. Even those who don’t consider themselves serious sports fans often pay attention to these contests when a prize such as a gold medal or a championship title is at stake. I believe the reason for this is that we all enjoy seeing people who work hard receive rewards for their efforts. We enjoy this on a personal level too; we like to know our training, work, and sacrifices bring benefits into our lives. I often get tears in my eyes when I see someone cross the finish line in a race. Why would I cry when I don’t even know the person? Because I know what it takes to win!
Thomas Paine said, “The harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph. What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly.” Before we can ever receive a prize or enjoy a reward, we have to do the work required. In fact, investments of time, energy, and dedication are what make the rewards sweet. The harder we work to reach a goal, the more we appreciate finally accomplishing it. Everything I have mentioned thus far-hard work, training, sacrifices, investments of time and energy, and dedication-falls under the category of “discipline.”
I truly believe that a disciplined life is a powerful life. Learning to be disciplined and to practice self-control will keep you from laziness and excess, and will help you stay focused and productive. It will require you to make an effort, but the reward will be worth the work. A disciplined life begins with a disciplined mind. We must be able to set our mind and keep it set concerning our desires and goals.
Think about It
Do you enjoy seeing people who work hard receive rewards? Are you willing to do whatever you need to do in order to have what you say you want?
