Why Self Discipline is Essential to Christian Life

Self discipline is an essential requirement of Christian life. It is one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit (Gal 5:22). Christian life will be unthinkable, almost impossible without self discipline. A man without self discipline is like a city broken into and left without walls (Prov 25:28). The ‘self’ that requires discipline is not one’s spiritual substance as a human being. The self that requires discipline is the false self, the ego, the old Adam, the ‘flesh’.


NECESSITY OF SELF DISCIPLINE

There is a primordial bifurcation that exists in every human person (Cf. Cor 5:17). There is a division between the true self and the false self; the old Adam and the new Adam; the flesh and the spirit. The tension between the true self and the false self necessitates self discipline. Self discipline helps the Christian to renounce the false self and nourish the true self. The ultimate goal of self discipline is wholeness and holiness. These are some of the reasons self discipline is absolutely indispensable in Christian life.


OVERCOMING SINS

It is virtually impossible to overcome a bad habit or sin without self discipline. The Christian has huge propensity to commit sin. He does want he does not want to do, and does not do what he wants to do. There is a ‘law of sin’ active in every human being (Cf. Rom 7:15-25). Self discipline assists the human will shackled to sin.  It can also be a ‘proactive’ measure to avoid sin and the numerous occasions of sin. Noble desire without self discipline is not sufficient to overcome sin.


 ACQUIRING VIRTUES

Self discipline is indispensable in acquiring a new habit or virtue. Virtue is the habit of doing good. To acquire, develop and persevere in a new virtue requires an enormous dose of self discipline. For example, it takes an incredible dose of discipline to pray constantly in the face of so many distractions from within and without. Self discipline is the foundation of virtues. Life of virtues will only be a mirage for the Christian that lacks self discipline.


OVERCOMING TEMPTATIONS

It is difficult to navigate the flow and flux of life without encountering some temptations. Temptations are part of human existence. And confronting and overcoming unavoidable temptations is one the crucial struggles of Christian life. Without self discipline confronting temptations will be an exercise in futility. I discipline my body and keep it under control (1Cor 9:27). Lack of self discipline renders the Christian vulnerable and defenseless- an easy target to vicious temptations of life.


FULFILLING  ONE’S VOCATION IN LIFE

Self discipline prepares and positions the Christian for higher calling or responsibility.  Joseph became the prime minister of ancient Egypt through his dedication to personal discipline. Daniel and his friends attained spiritual and moral maturity through self discipline. Mary was chosen by God to be the mother of the Messiah because she kept herself unsullied (Lk 2:26-38). Divine providence visits the disciplined Christian with stupendous opportunities. The whole universe conspires to assist those who enjoy self discipline.