Weekly Newsletter Jan. 30, 2008
Did we bite off too much?
I don't know, but my wife is certainly wondering about it now.
You see, we are in the process of getting a puppy. Yes, that's
right, a puppy. Those who know me may be a little shocked about
this. Regardless, we are well on our way. It will be ready to leave
its mother in the next couple of weeks and we have already
committed to getting it; both to the breeder and our children.
Why get one? First, it was a special part of my life as a child. I
really liked our animals, though as a child I did not appreciate
them as much as I should have. I want our children to experience
the fun a pet can be. Second, and more importantly, our children
will be trained in responsibility. They will have to care for a
living being. I can hear you now—“THEY will care for it, fat
chance.” I realize I will do a lot of the work, but they will be
responsible for certain things. The new will wear off like anything
else, but that is part of the learning process; sticking to a
commitment even when it isn't a grand as we first pictured it.
Anyway, pray for us!
*****
Discipline For A Crown
The Bible describes eternal salvation with the image of a crown.
There is the “crown of righteousness,” “crown of life,” and “crown
of glory” (2 Tim. 4:8; Jas. 1:12; 1 Pet. 5:4). We are also told
about the “imperishable crown” (1 Cor. 9:25). To get it we must
have discipline.
Paul said the imperishable crown is gained by being “temperate in
all things.” He disciplined his body to attain the goal, lest he
should be disqualified (1 Cor. 8:27). If the apostle had to, then
surely we must.
As is discussed in the passage, many areas of life require
discipline. Sports do. So does an academic career. What is more
difficult for some people, to run around on grass playing a game of
sitting at a desk reading a book? Anyway, discipline in the various
fields brings a reward. Namely, people improve at what they do and
thus excel and advance.
If we do not apply discipline to spiritual matters, we will lose
our soul. Without diligence, there is no rest (Heb. 4:11). Without
patience continuance, there will be no eternal life (Rom. 2:6-10).
Thus, we must control our carnal appetites and exercise ourselves
in godliness.
Consider these passages.
“Abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul” (1 Pet.
2:11).
“Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily
ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set
before us” (Heb. 12:1).
“For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you should
abstain from sexual immorality” (1 Thes. 4:3).
“…giving all diligence, add to your faith…self-control…” (2 Pet.
1:5, 6).
Our society is getting further away from personal, moral
discipline. We are taught to run amuck in the pleasures of life.
The thing is, the temporary pleasures bring repeated and lasting
misery to many. True happiness will only come with disciplining
your soul and body. Apply God's will unwaveringly to your life and
you will not only find peace in this life, but an imperishable
crown in the next.
*****
If you have not done it yet, let me know biblical questions you
have on your mind.
Also, what kind format do you prefer: audio, video, PDF, or plain
text? Do you want a mix?
Thanks for all your help.
All the best,
Steven
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