Fads or Discipline?

Have you noticed how many different kinds of exercise equipment have been 
introduced on the market in the last couple of years?  Now you can stay in shape 
with cross-country skiing, rowing machines, stair-steppers, treadmills, home gym 
sets, etc.  Add to these all the various weight-loss programs and you would 
think we would be the healthiest this country has ever been.  NOT!

Why is it that in the face of extraordinary "exercise" machines, wonderful 
weight-loss programs, and fabulous fat-free foods, we are still losing the war 
for a healthier society?  One word is the answer-DISCIPLINE.  Until we admit 
that WE control what we eat, how much we eat, how often we exercise, etc., we 
will never win the war.  When I develop the "discipline" to get the proper rest, 
to exercise regularly and watch what I eat, I will not need the fads.  

The same is true in the spiritual world.  Like health fads, spiritual fads are 
everywhere.  Just "pray those demons away" and you'll be a super Christian, or 
seek the gift of "spiritual laughter" and you'll never be depressed again.  Take 
this Bible study course and you'll know all there is about God.  

Somewhere Americans have been hood-winked into believing that anything 
worthwhile in life can be found without practicing an old-fashioned 
"disciplined" lifestyle.  Friends, you will NEVER be filled with the revelation 
of God's will without a willingness to study that "will" (God's Word).  You will 
NEVER be given wisdom from God as long as you reject the wisdom He has already 
given you (God's Word).  You will NEVER build a spiritual relationship with 
God if you don't build a disciplined prayer life.  You will NEVER become the 
image of Christ until YOU are willing to put off the works of the flesh and 
replace them by God's help with the fruit of the Spirit.

Fads may catch the world's eye for a brief moment, but only a disciplined, 
Christ-like life can provide healthy spirituality.

God Bless You
Leslie S. Chapman