| Session 3 Summary by Lynda Keren |
A piece of land left by itself will soon become covered with weeds. We do not need to do anything for weeds to grow. But for growth to happen in an orderly way, it needs intentional hard work. The apostle Paul is an example of one who continued to grow and was faithful till the end. We learned seven disciplines from the life of Paul which kept him growing.
1. Intentionally Pursuing the Knowledge of God
In Philippians 3, Paul writes that the greatest pursuit of his life was to know God. He was careful to become more like Jesus that he had the courage to ask people to imitate him. He did not let his mission overtake his desire to know God and become like Him.
What is the greatest pursuit of my life? Is it knowing God?
2. Very Strict with Himself
In 1 Corinthians 9:25-27, Paul writes that he disciplines his body so he will not be disqualified in the end. It is much like an athlete who trains his body and brings it under strict discipline so he can win the race. We live in times where stories of those who fall away are heard among Christians. We are called to be not just talkers but those whose lives are lived carefully before God and thus are faithful to the end.
3. The Discipline of Personal Prayer
Being concerned about an issue is not the same as praying. We are asked to “Go into the room and pray to your Father” (Matt:6:6). God should see us praying. We need to verbalize our prayers. Paul lived a life of prayer. He prayed for the specific needs of various people. He also had the humility to ask for prayer.
4. The Discipline of Study
Paul was well versed in the Scriptures. He knew the Torah well. He also knew his people well. He understood the context of his audience, he even quoted from their poets. That was a result of his careful habit of study.
5. Constantly Made Space for Himself
In Acts 20:13, there is an interesting passage where Paul decides to walk alone for about 10 hours (from Troas to Assos) so he could spend time alone praying, instead of taking the boat along with others. Solitude, being alone in the presence of God must become a discipline and a habit in our lives. We were encouraged to tithe our time to God.
“God has not bowed down to the pressure of the machine age. Anyone who wants to know God must set aside time for Him”- A.W.Tozer.
6. Belonged to a Community of Grace
Paul belonged to a community that encouraged and prayed for him. Sadly, “Church is often the army that shoots its wounded.” Our communities must be places of healing and hope because of the healing and hope we have received from God. Not as competitors but graciously, each exercising our gifts so the body of Christ is edified. Talents don’t build a church, but gifts used along with our talents will build the church.
7. Obedient to God till the End.
Paul stayed obedient to God till the end. He was faithful to the call of God in His life and did not let anything get in the way.
How can we grow in these disciplines so we can be faithful till the end, just like apostle Paul?