Notes

MATURING INTO CHRIST
X. Self-Discipline
I Peter 1: 3-9 & 15-18
March 15, 2009

INTRODUCTION
The direct corollary to obedience is self-discipline which is essential for our growth in grace. In this passage, St. Peter is calling us to develop disciplined hearts and minds. If we posses a self-disciplined mind we will not recklessly careen through life in self-indulgence. We are to make Philippians 4:8 a standard for our thinking.

I. BASIC PRINCIPLES OF A SELF-DISCIPLINED PERSON
The world says everything revolves around me. The Bible says the exact opposite in no uncertain terms. Once we understand who owns us and who redeemed us, then we want to pursue a life of holiness unto the Lord. This leads us to be self-disciplined people. Being self-disciplined helps us avoid the traps of a sin filled life. The battle for sin begins in our minds. “That’s where it all begins. Which thought will capture our imagination, fire our emotions and move the will?” asks John MacArthur. Psalm 119:11. Reading the Bible, studying the Bible, meditating on the words of the Bible fill our imaginations with God’s Truth, not man’s, making it difficult for our minds to be entrapped by sin. Proverbs 4:23.

II. COMPETITION
The Christian life is one of running the race, of pressing on the mark of the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:14. The Apostles often used the comparison with athletics to living the Christian life. I Corinthians 9:24. And we win by exercising self-control in all things. Victory goes to the self-disciplined. II Timothy 4:8. And w e must run the race according to the rules God lays down for us in His Word. Our self - discipline keeps us on course for spiritual victory.

III. SELF - DISCIPLINE BY DESIGN
How to develop self-discipline in our lives:
start with the small things. Song of Solomon 2:16.
Stay organized.
Don’t seek to be entertained all the time.
Be on time.
Be a person of your word.
Accept correction.
Practice self-denial.
Welcome responsibility
Focus on God’s cause, not mine.