Are any of you still members of the 5:45 Club?
I was thinking of you when I awoke with the alarm this morning, while asking God for the ability to look past the sleepiness, but to the joys that lie ahead.
I generally disbelieve that I will stick with any goal that I set for myself, so it comes at a great surprise to me that I've consistently seen the sunrise for the last several weeks. As with any goal set, there is always the initial surge of motivation, followed by a slipping of diligence that often leads to a deflated throwing in of the proverbial towel. I pray you are not there...whatever your goal or goals may be.
The Apostle Paul said: "But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified." (1 Corinthians 9:27) While the ancients took his practice seriously, we, the relevant post-moderns of today's church, seem to disregard discipline and rigor altogether. I know I have for most of my life. God's grace is abundantly sufficient for our salvation; we need not discipline our bodies to earn his favor or secure our forgiveness. However, the rich treasure trove of grace is revealed as we study the Word of God, and then seek to align ourselves with it.
Not every day that we choose to live a disciplined life will yield life-changing revelations, an array of fruitfulness, or even satisfaction. But we have this assurance from the Lord: "Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me." (John 15:4)
Be encouraged today...and continue to press on toward "the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 3:14)
I know I needed the reminder.