“You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good.” (Genesis 50:20 NLT)
I am disciplined when it comes to exercise. I run, lift weights, and practice yoga by choice. None of these activities are pleasant while they’re happening; it takes a long time before there are any noticeable benefits.
Voluntary forms of discipline like exercise, fasting, silence, and solitude are far from fun, but they can be productive. These habits can lead to right living, peace, and wholeness. Since we get to choose when to start and stop training, these practices can be less burdensome than ones we have no power over. However, imagine you are taken prisoner by an oppressive government. You are starved, forced to do manual labor, and kept in solitary confinement. It would be much harder to see anything beneficial coming out of these experiences, because they are externally imposed against our will.
Both voluntary and involuntary discipline can bring about good. It all hinges on our perspective. If we succumb to despair, fear, and negativity, we become enslaved by our circumstances. However, if our adversity prompts us to turn to God, and we learn to depend on Him, it leads to a mature faith that is invaluable.
“No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening--it's painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way.” (Hebrews 12:11 NLT)
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