Reading the New Testament thru in 30 days has reminded me of the discipline of reading my Bible. How can we develop a discipline? Discipline for discipline sake is a setup for depression. As has been quoted, discipline is choosing between what you want now and what you want most. If all you want most is discipline, eventually you’ll want something else most, like sugar!
So, I’m going to launch a series of posts on some keys to discipline. Hey, I know there are plenty on this topic, but it seems that it can be a great reminder for us all.
So, today, let’s talk about targets – Discipline must serve as a roadway towards a target. If it’s a never-ending highway, you’ll eventually pull over for a pit stop.
For instance, I make decisions for my marriage based on a target. I frequently repeat the number “50” in my mind. Lord willing, I want to be able for my kids to hold a huge celebration for Debby and my 50th wedding anniversary. I really want more than that, but “50” is such a milestone. I want them to be able to stand up and give a toast about their parent’s marriage. While not perfect, we trusted God to guide us through. I want my wife to be able to stand up and say that I loved her well.
There are many other factors that will determine this outcome, most of which are out of our control. But a target (“50”) can guide us to make decisions today that help us choose between what we want now and what we want most.
If you seem to be having trouble with a discipline in your life - health, spiritual, relational - maybe you don't have an inspiring target. Answer the question, "What's my target?"