Day 9 | Spiritual Discipline
Joshua 1:8 (ESV)
This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.
OBSERVATION
“Discipline” can be a pretty harsh word sometimes. When we think of discipline, we can think of punishment, but I like to think of discipline as a word that points to growth. Take athletes for example. They work hard in the gym, pushing their limits to grow stronger and stronger. But, results don’t happen overnight. It takes time, and more importantly, consistency. By committing to growing and practicing each day, these athletes get closer to reaching their goals.
It’s the same with reading the Bible. In order for us to grow, it is necessary to take steps each and every day. Growth happens not at once, but in little bits at a time. Growing closer to God through His word is like climbing a mountain: It takes one step at a time. God commands Joshua to meditate on the Word day and night, and we are meant to do the same. Remember, spiritual growth isn’t meant to be easy. If it were, everyone would do it. It can be a sacrifice to be closer to God each day. But, it is more than worth it in order to be in strong relationship with Him!
APPLICATION
It’s so important to have attainable goals when it comes to spiritual discipline. Don’t overwhelm yourself with trying to read whole books in a short amount of time. Instead, work on building good habits, so that you are meditating on God’s Word each and every day. The important thing is that each day, you are growing.
Here’s a couple practices I suggest:
- Read a Psalm and/or a Proverb a day
- Choose a book and read a chapter a day
- Write about what you have read in a journal
PRAYER
Dear God, I know your Word is truth and life. It is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. I want to grow closer to you each day through your Word. Forgive me for the times that I have disregarded your Word. The Bible is a gift for your children and I want to treasure it. Help me to be disciplined and remain strong in your word each day. Amen.