It seems we often do not put much stock in spiritual discipline. However, I believe it is of immense importance that we exercise discipline in our spiritual lives. Many of us have become so caught up in wanting things here and now that we become impatient whenever God asks that we wait. Did you know that waiting is not meant to be a time of idleness? No, it must be a time of preparation, of exercising spiritual discipline.
I am reminded of the warning given regarding Esau in Hebrews 12:16:17. He was hungry and wanted to be fed. The warning was not about eating or satisfying his hunger. Eating food for sustenance is not a bad thing. It is good to eat to satisfy your hunger. However, the warning is regarding how he went about satisfying that hunger - that real need he felt. Esau was impatient and wanted food NOW. So much so that he surrendered his birthright for a bowl of stew. He gave up the long term blessing and benefits of his birthright for the immediate gratification of feeling full in the belly. Esau should have exercised a little discipline and patiently prepared a meal to satiate his hunger instead of trading everything for a momentary reprieve of his hunger.
Are we doing the same? Are we trading the eternal for the temporary in our lives? Is there an area that we are not willing to wait and are risking everything for immediate satisfaction?
I encourage you - no, I implore you - to seek God with patience and intention. Wait upon him - your strength will be renewed, your real need met. While you wait, prepare your hearts to receive. Exercise spiritual discipline - pray, read and study Scripture, sing, meet with other Believers and encourage each other to do good to and for all, encourage each other in the faith. The God of all grace, mercy and providence will keep your hearts secure (Hebrews 10:19-25; 36-39). Keep your eyes upon the destination of dwelling in the House of the LORD forever - don't trade it for anything else in the world, especially not for a momentary and passing comfort.
May God bless and keep you today.
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