1. “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. (HEBREWS 12:11(NIV)

Discipline brings increase. It is crucial to our spiritual, personal, and even financial growth. Often times we pray for breakthroughs, for enlargements, for blessings — and God hears us. But sometimes, the missing link between our prayer and God’s promise is discipline. What is discipline? Discipline is not punishment — it is training. It is the structure, correction, and intentional effort we apply to align ourselves with God’s principles. Discipline is waking up early to pray, study the Word and have communion with the Holy Spirit even when you’re tired. Discipline is saying “no” to your flesh so you can say “yes” to the Spirit. Discipline is budgeting when you’d rather spend. Discipline is staying focus on your God given assignments even when other activities that are not primary to your goals, visions and dreams are calling and glamouring for your attention.

But have nothing to do with irreverent folklore and silly myths. On the other hand, discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness [keeping yourself spiritually fit]. 1 TIMOTHY 4:7(AMP)

Our God Is a God of Order and Discipline. God created the world with systems — seasons, laws and principles. Even Jesus was a man of discipline: rising early to pray (Mark 1:35), fasting, and obeying the Father in all things and if we really want to be Christ-like, we must walk in discipline. Discipline prepares you for the Blessing. Some of us are praying for a level of increase that we’re not yet prepared to handle. Sometimes, God in His mercy will withhold some things from us — not because He’s punishing you, but because He wants us to increase our capacity through discipline before He brings increase in abundance.

Discipline Produces Fruit. Hebrews 12:11 says that discipline produces a “harvest of righteousness and peace. “That’s not a small return — it’s a harvest! In finances, disciplined giving and stewardship lead to increase. In relationships, disciplined communication leads to stronger families. In ministry, disciplined service leads to deeper impact. Whatever you sow in discipline, you will reap in increase.

He who neglects and ignores instruction and discipline despises himself, but he who learns from rebuke acquires understanding [and grows in wisdom]. PROVERBS 15:32(AMP)

God will always reward discipline. The world celebrates talent, but God rewards faithfulness. David was disciplined with the sheep before he was trusted with the throne. Joseph was disciplined in the prison before he ruled in the palace. Jesus was disciplined in the wilderness before He ministered in power. Increase is always the reward of discipline.

“To learn, you must love discipline; it is stupid to hate correction. PROVERBS 12:1(NLT)

Here is my point of call today. What area of your life needs discipline? Prayer? Time? Finances? Health? Holiness? Whatever it is, begin today. Small, consistent steps of discipline will lead to great increase in your life.

“And let us not get tired of doing what is right, for after a while we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t get discouraged and give up. GALATIANS 6:9(TLB)

Prayer of the Day: Father in the name of Jesus, I ask that you help me to embrace the discipline that shapes my character, aligns me with Your will, and prepares me for the increase You desire to bring. Strengthen my heart to remain faithful in the process, and let my life bear the fruit of righteousness and peace. Amen.”