Study Takes Discipline


A few months ago, I certified to become a Zumba instructor. Right after that, I went through the process to get my Group Exercise Certification. It was a process for both, and there was something that was required of me to receive the certifications. The same thing that was required for the certifications is also required of every born-again believer who desires to be righteous representatives of a risen Savior! That thing is discipline.

The Bible says in 2 Timothy 2:15, "Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." The first word in this verse lets us know that casual perusing of scripture is not enough. In order to be a approved workman who rightly divides the word of truth you have to study. And study takes discipline.

When I was preparing for the group exercise certification I had to study. Every day I took time out to go over the material by reviewing, rehearsing and reciting it to pass the test. Believer's must do the same thing. We must review, rehearse and recite the Word of God and live it, that we would be right representatives of the Lord Jesus Christ. It cannot be a casual reading or cramming of the word of God. We must study and then take what we have studied and bring it into the reality of our every day lives. And this my friends, takes discipline.

So at this point you must ask, "Am I disciplining myself to study and live the Word of God?" It's a simple, yet valid question because many Christians have succumb to the spirit of the age and have become false advertisers of the truth they say they study. They have become F.A.T. Christians because of a lack of discipline to study and live the truth they say they believe.

"Fat," is such a strong word, and no one overweight likes to be referred to as "fat." So, instead they use words such as, fluffy, full figured or thick. Well, whatever word you chose, the bottom line is that when a person is overweight it is a public display of lack of discipline. Spiritually speaking, when a Christian does not live this gospel they say they believe, it is largely due to a lack of discipline.

If you have been living life as a F.A.T. Christian because of a lack of discipline, today is the day to repent and make the midterm corrections. Start with 2 Timothy 2:15 and begin to study the Word of God. Meditate, marinate and muse of the truths in the Bible. Allow it to transform your life so that you can become an approved workman by bringing glory to God in your everyday living. As you purpose to apply what you are studying, you will surely see almost immediate result; and that my brothers and sisters will definitely please the heart of the Father.

Love, peace and blessing,

Dr. Sheila

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