WEEK 13: POWER, LOVE, SELF-DISCIPLINE BY PAULA LYON

How do you have so much self discipline? I've been asked that question a time or two. As a personal trainer, I was just beginning to think some were born with the "self discipline" gene and some were not. This theory stirred something deep in my soul. Only when I turned to my bible, did I finally get the answers that had kept me up at night.

It's not whether one has self-discipline or not, but rather, understanding that we each possess it and that it is God given. The bible promises us, "pronounce something to be" (Job 22:28) that which you chose to do you must "decide and decree" and when you declare a thing "it will be established for you." (Job 22:28)

You are as unique and one-of-a-kind as a snowflake or fingerprint. Desires and goals have been seeded deep into your heart. You have the power to bring these talents, gifts and desires to fruition. "You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you." (Phil 4:13).  When there is something that has spoken to your heart that requires self-discipline, it is important to remember that things are the way they are, because you are the way you are. Change one thing and everything changes.

Make a plan and use it every day to implement it. When your thoughts do not align with your vision quickly replace them with what you want, who you desire to be and what you want to accomplish. Closely monitor your thoughts, emotions and actions until thinking, speaking and acting in a way that aligns with your goals becomes a lifestyle.

Rid yourself of all time wasters, energy depletors, unhealthy thoughts and self doubt and start taking control of what flows through you. Positive thoughts, words and actions will get you exactly where God want you to be. Stay forward focused and don't sabotage yourself by falling into old habits or thought patterns. When you have a day that your don't feel like staying the course, (and we all do) lean into him. Ask him for strength and guidance. As your heavenly father he wants to see you succeed and he wants you to call on him and he wants you to give him the glory. Every day is a new opportunity to converse with God and map out your plans together. If you ask and if you listen, he will give you the playbook to make your goal reaching EPIC!

To be disciplined is to put into practice the only kind of control God ever puts into your hands: self control. It's important to remember, "We don't have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to." ~ Brene Brown.

Blessings,
Paula Lyon

Paula Lyon is a personal trainer and nourishment coach. She loves running, being outdoors and spending time with her husband of 30 years and her three kids and four grandchildren.

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