Three Disciplines

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

Discipline implies consistency. Discipline in the right things is difficult. Especially, this is true if discipline requires me to break old habits. When Paul sent a letter to the Thessalonians. He provided three rapid-fire imperatives for life. Rejoice, pray and give thanks. Not a big deal really. I know I that rejoicing is good. Praying is sort of a given for a follower of Jesus. Giving thanks would not show up on anybody’s list of bad ideas. But, I believe there is a potent message that stands over and above the list of three. The message lies in a few pesky words that ruin the nice feel of Paul’s instructions. It is the words, “always”, “without ceasing” and “in everything”. Those are game changers. Those point us toward courageous discipline.

It is not just that Paul is teaching that we should be consistent. It is a lesson about how character is born out of discipline. It is an essential clarification for a group of believers who were young in their faith. The practices of faith are not dependent upon circumstances. The outflow of Christian character does not take a break when difficulties press in. Because of Jesus I have cause to rejoice every day. Because Jesus has enabled me to live in relationship with Almighty God, I will talk to God; I will listen for His voice. Is there anything in my life that I will allow to cause me to cease praying? Because of the love of my Savior, my list of reasons to give thanks will never be exhausted. Discipline? Of course, it’s not easy to be consistent. Too often I tend to think in terms of rejoicing, praying and giving thanks in response to temporary situations rather than in response to an eternal God. But, a disciplined approach to life reflects the consistent presence of God within my heart. After all, God is with me “always”, “without ceasing” and “in everything”.