Discipline

Occasionally, I see the need to hit this topic. It could be because of the reminders I must have in my own life. We live in a society that seeks instant rewards. I know that I have the stains of that kind of thinking in my own heart and mind at times. I wouldn't say it out loud, as many of you wouldn't, but it is difficult to pursue a correct course when the prize to be enjoyed seems to be in a holding pattern. Our experience is like the proverb indicates: "Hope deferred makes the heart sick." When we do not see the reward coming for doing the right things, all that is left to keep us on track is discipline. We must train ourselves to do what is right just because it is right and not worry about what we get out of it. That sounds like an obvious and easy thing. The truth is we want to enjoy benefits from our actions. The longer we go without seeing some kind of positive reinforcement for our correct behavior, the harder it is to continue doing what is right. Do not give up! Whether it is from a spiritual, moral, ethical or practical perspective keep grinding. I happen to believe the Bible verse that says, "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. (Galatians 6:9 NIV)"