the joy of discipline

So God talks about discipline a few times.

Duet 8:5, Heb 12:6, 8 & 10; Rev 3:19, Job 5:17, Prov 1:2-3; 3:11-12; 5:23; 6:23; 19:18, Psalm 94:12

Ok. More than a few times

And in 2 Timothy 1:7, the Scriptures tell us that 'self-discipline' is a GIFT to us from God.

When I am disciplined, I really enjoy life more fully.

Those who are close to me know it is a life-long struggle (and there's hopefully plenty of life left!) But seriously it is a joy to me to see that 'stuff happens' when I DO the 'stuff' I'm supposed to be on track to DO!
Wow.
Magical.
But not really. When I accept God's discipline (when I'm wrong) and exercise 'self-discipline' (when I've been lazy), it just means that maturity and growth and accomplishment and character are produced and pile up high enough to be noticed and to stand on to stretch and reach even FURTHER in life! (and not only is this true for me/myself, BUT when I'm disciplined, my capacity to help others is greater and more focused as well!!!)

So. Hooray for discipline.

"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