“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.” –1 Cor.9:24-27.

The apostle Paul is talking about self-discipline here. Just like athletes go into strict training in order to compete, we Christians endure training so that we can live our best life for Jesus. This requires self-discipline. A coach can guide an athlete through proper training methods, but they can’t force them to do the work. In the same way, a teacher or mentor can tell you how to become a stronger Christian, but you must put those principles into action yourself.

There are different areas in life in which we must discipline ourselves. To eat properly we must educate ourselves about nutrition, make proper dietary choices and—perhaps most importantly—know when to push back from the table! Prov.23:2 says, “And put a knife to your throat if you are given to gluttony.”

To function well in life, we need to get proper exercise. The Bible says that “…physical training is of some value…” (1 Tim.4:8). If we neglect our muscles, even routine daily activities can become difficult. But if we set aside time for intentional, focused exercise, we can readily handle life’s daily chores.

We must discipline ourselves regarding sexual morality. When Joseph was tempted by Potiphar’s wife, his solution was to run away (Gen.39:11-12). Sometimes it’s just as simple as that! We must avoid sexual temptation or pay a dear cost (Prov.7).

Our speech must be disciplined. Prov.15:1 says, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” A lot of teaching in the Bible has to do with the proper use of the tongue. If you don’t watch your mouth, no one else is going to do it for you!

Our sobriety requires self-discipline. Prov.20:1 informs us that, “Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise. Alcohol has destroyed countless careers, relationships and lives. Discipline in this area is critical!

We need to discipline ourselves to work. “The craving of a sluggard will be the death of him, because his hands refuse to work.” (Prov.21:25).

We need discipline in our finances. “Dishonest money dwindles away, but whoever gathers money little by little makes it grow.” (Prov.13:11).

Finally, we need self-discipline when in the area of Bible study. We should vow along with the Psalmist, “I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways. I delight in your decrees; I will not neglect your word.” (Ps.119:15-16).