Spirit of Self Discipline
“For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:7
Daniel Goleman, in his book “Emotional Intelligence” writes the following about self-discipline in a story called “The Samurai and the Zen Master”:
“A belligerent samurai . . . once challenged a Zen master to explain the concept of heaven and hell.
But the monk replied with scorn, “You’re nothing but a lout—I can’t waste my time with the likes of you.”
His very honor attacked, the samurai flew into a rage and, pulling his sword from its scabbard, yelled, “I could kill you for your impertinence!”
“That,” the monk calmly replied, “is hell.”
Startled at seeing the truth in what the master pointed out about the fury that had him in its grip, the samurai calmed down, sheathed his sword, and bowed, thanking the monk for the insight. “And that,” said the monk, “is heaven.””
We bring glory to the Lord when we exhibit self-discipline!
“The good Lord gave you a body that can stand most anything. It’s your mind you have to convince.” – Vince Lombardi
“The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: for attaining wisdom and discipline; for understanding words of insight; for acquiring a disciplined and prudent life, doing what is right and just and fair” Proverbs 1:1-3