Who is Your Role Model for Discipline?
WHO IS YOUR ROLE MODEL FOR DISCIPLINE?
Discipline: Staying Within the Boundaries God Has Set for You
Key Thought:
Discipline is not about restricting your freedom but about using your freedom wisely—in a way that honors God and edifies others.
As Christians, we are called to live a disciplined life—cultivating self-control, one of the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23). Joseph, in Genesis 39:6–12, stands out as a remarkable role model of discipline and self-control.
Joseph: A Role Model for Discipline
Genesis 39:6–12:
Joseph’s encounter with Potiphar’s wife illustrates how discipline requires us to maintain our integrity before God and man, even in the face of intense temptation.
When Potiphar’s wife attempted to seduce him:
1️⃣ He didn’t entertain her advances.
2️⃣ He fled the situation entirely.
Joseph understood that:
Staying too close to temptation could lead to sin.
Maintaining integrity required immediate and decisive action.
Lessons We Can Learn from Joseph
1️⃣ Flee from Temptation Entirely
Sometimes the best way to avoid sin is to remove yourself entirely from the situation.
Joseph didn’t stay to argue, justify, or rationalize his decision—he ran away.
Practical Example:
Avoid situations or places where temptation is likely, even if you believe you are strong enough to resist.
1 Thessalonians 5:22: “Abstain from every appearance of evil.”
2️⃣ Set Boundaries to Protect Yourself
Discipline means understanding your weaknesses and setting boundaries that keep you from falling into sin.
Joseph didn’t test how close he could get to temptation without sinning; he stayed far away.
Practical Example:
If watching romantic movies often leads you to watch pornography, avoid romantic movies altogether.
If social media tempts you to jealousy, comparison, or sinful desires, limit your time online or delete the apps causing you to stumble.
3️⃣ Discipline Starts with the Heart
Joseph’s act of discipline was not just about avoiding sin but about honoring God and maintaining his integrity.
Discipline requires intentionality, starting with a heart fully surrendered to God’s Word and His will.
Psalm 119:11: “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”
4️⃣ Discipline Requires Immediate Action
When faced with temptation, delayed action can be dangerous.
The longer you linger in a tempting situation, the more likely you are to fall.
Example from Joseph:
He didn’t pause to negotiate or argue with Potiphar’s wife. He took immediate action by running away.
2 Timothy 2:22: “Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace.”
Modern Applications of Discipline
Avoid Tempting Environments
Even if you’re confident in your ability to resist sin, avoid places or environments that might expose you to temptation.
Example: Clubhouses, explicit websites, or any place where sin is normalized.
Guard Your Eyes and Ears
- What you watch and listen to influences your heart. Be intentional about avoiding media that stirs sinful desires or leads you into temptation.
Accountability
- Surround yourself with God-fearing friends or mentors who will hold you accountable and encourage you in your walk with Christ.
Daily Devotion to God
- Spend time in prayer, meditation, and Bible study. Discipline begins with a strong foundation in God’s Word.
Why Is Discipline So Important?
1️⃣ Protects Your Relationship with God
- Discipline keeps you aligned with God’s will and protects you from sin that separates you from Him.
2️⃣ Honors God
By living a disciplined life, you reflect Christ’s character to the world.
1 Corinthians 10:31: “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
3️⃣ Prepares You for Greater Responsibility
Discipline is part of God’s preparation process for the greater plans He has for you.
Luke 16:10: “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much.”
4️⃣ Strengthens Your Faith
Discipline trains you to rely on God, even when it’s difficult, and builds endurance in your spiritual journey.
Hebrews 12:11: “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.”
A Final Word of Encouragement
Joseph is a perfect example of how discipline, combined with trust in God, can help you overcome temptation and remain faithful. Discipline is about making daily choices that honor God and protect your soul.
Prophet T.B. Joshua once said:
“If you don’t discipline yourself, the world will discipline you.”
Live a disciplined life, not because it’s easy, but because it’s the key to staying within God’s boundaries and fulfilling His purpose for your life.
A Prayer for Discipline
🙏 Lord Jesus, help me to live a disciplined life that honors You in everything I do. Teach me to flee from temptation, set healthy boundaries, and rely on Your strength. Create in me a pure heart and renew a steadfast spirit within me. I surrender my weaknesses to You, trusting that Your grace is sufficient for me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Good Morning 
and PROSPER 
today
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References
WHO IS YOUR ROLE MODEL FOR DISCIPLINE
Published by SpiritWorshipGen – A Generation of Spiritual Worshippers