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