Friday, January 21, 2011

"FAN THE FLAME" FRIDAY - Discipline

Welcome to "Fan the Flame" Friday.

This is a weekly post that will be "short and sweet" (kinda like me...)

Just a word and a phrase, a sentence or a question...just a little something to "fan the flame" of your creativity!

Today's word: discipline

What does the word discipline mean to you?

Which of its two definitions came first to your mind? Why?
  • chastening, correction, enforcing obedience; punishment
  • training and/or teaching that develops self-control and self-improvement

Let me know what you think!!


"This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you…For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline." (2 Timothy 1:6-7)


BLOG = "Blessedly Leaning On God!"

8 comments:

  1. Good flame fan...this was the word of discussion with my 15 year old just yesterday...it seems to be a great word for the beginning of the year. I think I always think of both definitions...God disciplines those He loves, and I need more discipline in my spiritual habits to grow in all areas of my life.
    Good word and good fanning of the flame

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  2. Hi Sharon,

    This is a word, I am thinking much about at the moment. B would be my answer.

    Thanks for all your encouragment. Another word I am thinking much about. God Bless Nita x

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  3. I hate the word discipline. It holds too much negativity for me.

    but 'fan the flame' I get....for me...it's keep doing the things that will reflect Him...in writing...parenting...personal stuff...

    Thanks Sharon...have a great weekend.

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  4. Hi Sharon -

    Discipline means regularly keeping our flesh under subjection...

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  5. Tough one - don't like the word myself because it can be so misused.

    But if used correctly - it can teach you the right way - if used with love.

    sandie

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  6. I actually love the word discipline. I always equate it with the second definition. I have an unashamed loved affair with learning.

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  7. Blessings Sharon, I have mixed emotions with the word "discipline" but self discipline I love!

    Quite honestly both of your definitions came to my mind. The first one brings former thoughts and fear. The second one brings love and care for my growth.

    When I look just at the word "discipline" (without my previous conceptions and misconceptions from God and humans, cuz one has tainted the other...)my initial glance caught the word "disciple" (I don't think it's a root but they appear to derive from the same beginning). So with this is mind, I will cling to your second definition with the anticipated curiosity of doing and being whatever is necessary to be a disciple of Jesus Christ!
    So far, His way has never failed and His discipline has been ever so gentle and kind in how He teaches, guides and corrects me even through the dreaded trials, thorns and tramping in my old ways, He patiently encourages me. The consequences of my own rebellion have caused enough bad results that I imagine He figures I'm had enough! But never enough of HIM and His rod seems to gently pull me back whereas I can recall other "rods" that weren't as kind or beneficial! I love to learn but doing it through my mistakes is not the best or easiest way to learn, I like to prepare, ask questions and see good reason and teaching! God is so good!

    May God use this to discipline us further! Great
    "fan to flame" and kindle our thoughts!

    Peace and JOY,
    Peggy

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  8. Janette - A discussion about discipline with a 15-year old...challenging?! I love how you pointed out the two aspects of discipline - God teaching us, and us applying those lessons to living a disciplined life.

    Nita - I am also thinking about discipline in my life. I'm wanting to be better trained in spiritual warfare, more controlled in my thought life, and consistent in my prayer life. That's the "discipline" I want to develop.

    Sarah - Again, sorry that this week's word brought negativity. But what you said about "fanning the flame" was PERFECT! We must continually "tend the fire" of our faith - feeding it with the kindling of Scripture, prayer, and fellowship. Keep doing the things that reflect the Lord - YES!

    Sandra - What a perfect definition - REGULARLY keeping our flesh under SUBJECTION. With the Lord's help, this discipline will lead to self-control. I'm with you, let's whip that old sin nature into shape!!

    Sandie - I like what you said. Loving teaching - that's a perfect definition of discipline for me. It incorporates both aspects, I think. And perfectly captures a loving God who cares enough to teach us - even when the lessons are sometimes difficult.

    Debbie - Your love of learning always shines through. It's a wonderful character trait. It will keep your mind young, and your spirit close to the Lord. "As a deer pants for water..."

    Peggy - I looked up the word "disciple." It basically means someone who learns from a teacher. So, your assessment was a wonderful addition to the word "discipline." Doing and being whatever it takes to be a disciple of Christ - perfect! I'm so glad that His yoke is easy, and His burden is light.

    Love everyone's input today - GOD BLESS!

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"So [I] have been greatly encouraged in the midst of [my] troubles and suffering, dear brothers and sisters, because you have remained strong in your faith. It gives [me] new life to know that you are standing firm in the Lord. How [I] thank God for you!" (1 Thessalonians 3:7-9)

Thanks for your comments - it is such a joy to be sharing my journey with friends like YOU!

(NOTE: Anonymous comments will be removed. Thank you for understanding.)