The Disciples Disciplines Scripture Reading – 1 Corinthians 9:24 - 27a (NLT)

"Don't you realize that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize? So run to win! All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing. I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what is should."

 "The Disciples Disciplines' - did you ever notice how closely related those two words are? To be a disciple means to be a learner or a pupil - in our case a follower of Jesus Christ our Lord. Of course to be disciplined means to put yourself into training in order to function by a set of principles that you adhere to and live by each and every day.

Paul paints the picture of an athlete in this regard and a race with a prize at the end. Truthfully in this world there can only be one person who wins the prize. But the wonderful news for us is that Christ Jesus has called each one of us to receive our own special prize, that will never fade away throughout all of eternity.

However, no-one in this life as an athlete is awarded the top prize without the proper training and disciplines in their lives. The same will be true spiritually and eternally. Only those who choose to discipline themselves will win what God has purposed for them.

Concerning our human body, or the flesh with its carnal appetites Paul said he disciplines it, or beats his body. Not meaning that he literally whips the body, but rather that he will not be subjected to the carnal desires for which his flesh, old nature cries out.

We also must exercise these disciplines of grace in order to grow and strive for all Christ has for us. Disciplines such as: prayer, fasting, bible reading/study and obedience, coupled with fellowship with God's people in church and service with the gifts that God has bestowed upon us. 

Prayer Father I rejoice that Christ Jesus my Lord did Your will perfectly and even went to the cross for my salvation. Forgive me I pray when I do not discipline myself as a follower of Jesus. Spirit of Christ fill me today, and lead me along the pathway that will bring glory to Jesus my Lord. 

Memory Verse:  Ephesians 4:3 NLT "Make every _______ to keep yourselves ________ in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace."