How regimented are you about getting things done?
This week's word is one that addresses just this: discipline.
Discipline when used as verb is a word that means to train (someone) to obey rules or codes of behavior.
And you may want to stop reading right here.
Discipline? What? I don't need anyone telling me what to do. Or obey, that's archaic. I most certainly do not need a code of behavior imposed on me!
(I've heard it said that the words that annoy us the most are the words that we need the most. Sigh.)
You, see, like the litany in one of my favorite chapters of the Bible, Ecclesiastes 3 (which reminds us that there's a time for everything under the sun), I believe there's a time in our life for discipline as much as there is a time in our life for all things free-flowing.
For as much as you and I need down-time, rest, and play, we also need discipline.
We need discipline because it gives intention to our goals.
We need discipline because it gives feet to what we want to become.
We need discipline because it helps us spend our precious days on earth in the kind of activities that are not only the best for us, but most honoring to our Creator God and our best gifts.
As for me over here, I'm (trying to) open more books than binging on Netflix. I'm reminding myself that the exercise does exist and I'm (trying to) slow down and just think more often.
My soul and mind can't run on empty. These are areas where my life needs discipline.
What about yours?
If you're struggling right now to find your way, maybe discipline is the word that will help you emerge from this funk.
Pick something this week that is your thing to pay attention to. And just do it. And when you fail (because you will, we all do), pick yourself up and keep going. Discipline.
Your soul will thank you for your efforts. Really.
XO
Elizabeth
