10 Disciplines
from Paul’s life and ministry (extracted from a message by
C.B. Samuel-former EFICOR director]
Discipline
is that you do consistently in spite of your situations, positions,challenges.
- Discipline of prayer and study Bible: secret of your power directly proportional to your prayer life. If we study the life of Paul he was always consistent in his prayer life irrespective of his situation. We see Paul praying @ the prison when his arms were locked with chain, while travelling in the ship, etc. Acts 16:13 -And on the Sabbath day we went outside the gate to a riverside, where we were supposing that there would be a place of prayer. Psalms 119:164 psalmist says seven times a day i praise you Lord.
- Discipline of doing requirement of the law: Acts 17:2-it says as was Paul custom, he went to the synagogue service on Sabbath day. Once Dr. Bill graham confessed that he never missed any Sundays.
- Discipline of learning: if we read and learn we can meaningfully share the gospel. Acts 17:22-26 when Paul addressing to people @ Athens he knew very well about them and their culture.
- Discipline of hard work: Acts 18:3, 20:35, 1 Thessalonians 2:9 these scripture shows that how Paul works hard for the gospel even worked himself to earn livelihood.
- Discipline of accountability: 2 Corinthians 8:20, 21- Paul was accountable to the church the graciously send gift for them- an offering for Jerusalem
- Discipline your body: 1 Corinthians 9:27-Paul says i practice what i preach. Let your progress seen by others. Beat your body/mind/ thoughts obedient to Christ
- Discipline of making and keeping promises: Acts 18: 18
- Discipline of using gift appropriately: Rom1:11- imparting the gift, 1 Corinthians 14:18, 19 Use your gift to make a difference
- Discipline of giving: 1 Corinthians 16:1-2 Tithe-responsibility
- Discipline of reflection (Evaluation): 2 Corinthians 13:5- examine yourselves/ test your faith, “1 Timothy 4:16- keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you”.
