Discipline

When we have the freedom to do anything we often sit around and do nothing. That's why we limit ourselves purposefully into some sort of discipline. Whether it be an exercise routine, a diet, or a Bible-in-a-year reading plan, discipline gives us structure. It takes away the "bigness" of freedom, and allows us to move somewhere.

So for the past 6 months I've been stuck in bigness. I finished my Bible-in-a-year plan and didn't want to simply repeat it because I thought I could do something else. I should have repeated it. In allowing myself the freedom to do something else, I then had to define what that something else was. And in that there is a lot of freedom. And I got lost in it.

So, new discipline for a new year right? Shouldn't be ashamed that I'm trying to do the exact same thing as people all across the nation, get myself into a more healthy routine. Of course, the difference is that my routine needs to be time with You. So back to the Bible-in-a-year plan. Maybe back to blogging, if that helps my routine, but no promises. Because discipline isn't about what I should produce (i.e. brilliant thoughts to wow anyone who stumbles onto my blog) and discipline isn't about enjoyment (i.e. sudden epiphanies and tingling spiritual closeness). Although those things will happen sometimes, they can't be the goal.

The goal is You, everyday entering my life, in the ordinary practice of reading and prayer. Start today Lord.