Embracing the Lifeline of Discipline
As we grow in our walk with God, we come to realize that discipline is not a restrictive or oppressive concept, but rather a liberating and empowering one. The apostle Paul understood this when he wrote, “Train yourself for godliness” (1 Tim. 4:7-8). This spiritual workout is essential for every Christian woman who desires to bring her will and every area of her life under submission to God’s will.
The Gospel: Our First and Most Important Discipline
At the heart of every godly woman’s life is the gospel. It is the source of our spiritual power and the foundation upon which all other disciplines are built. We must know, believe, and make the gospel the center of our lives, never losing its wonder and awe (John 3:16).
Submission: The Key to Joy
In a culture that rejects submission, it is essential for Christian women to understand its importance. Bringing our lives into submission to God’s will is the key to joy and the path to being a godly woman (Phil. 2:8-11). This involves submitting to God’s ways over our own ways, daily choosing to do His will (James 4:7-10; Heb. 12:9).
Prayer: The Source of Power
Prayer is the source of power for growth and perseverance in our spiritual lives. It bends our wills to God’s, enabling us to submit our lives to Him (Eph. 6:18). Continual prayer is God’s will for us, and it should be an integral part of our daily lives.
Worship: The Ultimate Priority
Worship encompasses all of life, and it is the ultimate priority of every Christian woman. We must understand that worship is not just a Sunday activity, but a daily attitude of consecration to God (Rom. 12:1).
Cultivating a Christian Mind
As Christian women, we must cultivate a Christian mind, thinking God’s thoughts and knowing His heart. This involves filling our minds with God’s Word and allowing it to inform and direct our lives (Phil. 4:8).
Contentment: A Learned Discipline
Contentment is a learned discipline that comes from applying our knowledge of God to our circumstances. It involves trusting in God’s goodness and sovereignty, even in the midst of adversity (Phil. 4:11).
Propriety: Behaving Like a Christian
Propriety means behaving in ways that are appropriate for Christians, elevating our words, appearance, and attitudes. It involves acting in a manner worthy of the gospel, bringing honor to Christ (Phil. 1:27).
Perseverance: Running with Endurance
Perseverance involves running with endurance the race set before us, submitting to God’s will and looking to Jesus in every circumstance (Heb. 12:1). This discipline grows out of a deep-seated faith in God’s goodness and sovereignty.
Singleness and Marriage: Positive Assignments
Whether single or married, Christian women must understand that their assignment is positive and from God. Singleness is not a lesser state, but a unique opportunity for service and devotion to God (1 Cor. 7:7). Marriage involves submitting to God’s will and respecting one’s husband, cultivating a gentle and quiet spirit (Eph. 5:22-24; 1 Pet. 3:1).
Good Deeds: A Response of Gratitude
Good deeds are the redeemed heart’s response of gratitude for God’s gift of grace. Christian women must determine to develop the discipline of good deeds, doing good to everyone, especially those in the household of faith (Gal. 6:10).
Growing in Godly Womanhood
As we cultivate the disciplines of godly womanhood, we must remember that there is no contradiction between grace and hard work. God always gives more grace as we attempt to do His will (1 Cor. 15:10).
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