When you ask a person what the word "discipline" means, they'll often give you a negative definition. To be sure, discipline can be seen in a negative light, especially if you're on the receiving end of the stick, but is discipline really positive or negative? Are these two proper ways to look at discipline administered in a biblical fashion? Obviously, discipline can be physically and emotionally painful in the midst of the experience. However, the Scripture teaches that discipline done properly should be seen as a positive experience, not a negative one. As a rose bush needs to get pruned in order to grow and bear many rose buds, so we, too, need to be pruned in order to bear much fruit. As Jesus said,"I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch of mine that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit." If discipline is administered properly, then, what should be our attitude while undergoing it? The apostle Peter, in chapter 4 of his first epistle, gives us some insight into what our attitude should be in the midst of affliction. Click on the link above to hear more about this attitude we, as branches united to Christ the vine, should have. Click and listen as to how Peter calls you to follow in the footsteps of the master teacher.
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