What Does the Bible Say About Discipline?
The dictionary defines the word "discipline" in two ways. First, it is a training that is expected to yield a specific character or behavior that would lead to moral or mental improvement. The other definition is that of a punishment with the intention to correct or train.
The first meaning has a positive ring as it denotes effort and sacrifice imposed upon oneself which makes it voluntary. The second definition bears a negative connotation, being associated with punitive action. It is not voluntary as it is a result of overstepping imposed limitations.
The Bible advocates for discipline in both definitions. In fact, it admonishes parents to teach discipline to their children at a young age. Proverbs 6:20–23 tells children not to forsake their father's commands and mother's teachings as they serve as a lamp and light that will guide them in life.
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In the same book, verses 11–12 talk about God's discipline to his children, referring to the second definition involving punitive action. While God doesn't cause unfortunate events, He allows these to happen sometimes to discipline us for our wayward action. It tells us not to resent God because His discipline is part of His love.
The Bible points to three things in a believer's life that need to be disciplined for him to follow Christ more effectively. The first area is the heart and mind. This is the most important as adhering to God's commands need sacrifice and commitment from the heart and mind.
Appetite is the second area, and we're not talking only about food. A person should discipline his appetite for material things and worldly pleasures, too. An unabated desire for such things can turn into greed, which leads people to commit evil and hurt others.
Finally, the emotions need to be disciplined. Anger is not a bad thing but Ephesians 4:26 warns against succumbing to sin during that state. Along that line, Christians should also discipline their tongue which is a double-edged sword so it will not pierce but bring healing (Proverbs 12:18).
