If you have ever set a goal for yourself, you know how hard it can be to remain disciplined to attain it. Sometimes we have short-term goals where we only have to have perseverance for a short while, but other times we set long-term goals that make us stay committed for much longer periods of time. For instance, there were times in my life when I wanted to lose large amounts of weight. This was not a “don’t eat for a couple of weeks and get off those last few pounds,” but rather a long-term plan that was going to show small results at a time. When I was setting these goals, I had to segment how much weight I needed to lose each quarter in order to reach my goal. There are just times in the journey where being disciplined wears on a person. You become tired and weary through the journey and so you begin to loosen up in your workouts, eating habits, etc. This happens in any area of life where we decide to become more disciplined. Until our decisions become habit, we fight against our flesh to make the best choices.
In Hebrews, the author was describing our life as a race and how we should run with endurance the particular race God has set before us.
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.” Hebrews 12:1
The author also discusses the discipline of the Lord and how He disciplines His children. While discipline is not enjoyable at the moment and can become tiring, it ultimately shows God’s love.
“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.” Hebrews 12:11
Towards the end of the message, the author encourages his readers.
“So take a new grip with your tired hands and strengthen your weak knees. Mark put a straight path for your feet so that those who are weak and lame will not fall but become strong.” Hebrews 12:12-13
Sometimes life gets hard and sometimes it gets tiring. This is true no matter what phase of life you are currently going through. Being disciplined in your life adds a new dimension to this. Whether you are working on spiritual, physical, or intellectual disciplines, being purposeful and continuing to pursue the goal can become tiring. We must have moments where we reflect and gain new strength to continue the journey. The author of Hebrews encourages us to take a new grip and strengthen our walk. This will not only create more passion and desire for us, but will also create paths for those who are weaker to follow behind us. Don’t give up on your long term goals. Take time to strengthen your grip and refocus on the benefits of the discipline it will take to achieve those goals.
This blog was written by Amy Carrico: Author of Making Moments Matter Blog
Last Updated on September 30, 2024
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