“For the commandment is a lamp and the teaching a light, and the reproofs of discipline are the way of life” (Proverbs 6:23, ESV).
I’ve gone been around the world and back over the subject of discipline in my own life. I’ve been fanatically devoted to a disciplined life; and I’ve been demotivated and undisciplined, on principle, that I wouldn’t fall into legalism.
For me, personally, there has never been a middle ground—I’ve shared before about my mild OCD. Discipline is one of those things that I love and hate, and “love to hate.”
When my life is in order I love discipline. There’s nothing like the feeling that comes when all of my “ducks are in a row.” I feel like peace and calm. But life isn’t always peace and calm; sometimes it’s messy. And when life gets messy, discipline keeps me from going under.
But I struggle with questions about my self-discipline and legalism. Am I wrong to be hard on myself when I don’t live up to the more demanding aspects of scripture (1 Peter 1:16)? Or, on the other hand, am I wrong to go easy on myself because of the freedom we have in Christ?
I’d like to look at these issues this week. What exactly does it mean that we are free in Christ Jesus? If we are free from the Law, what effect should that have on our lifestyles? Is legalism wrong?
I will be sharing my struggles on the topic throughout this week. Please leave a note or question in the comments about your thoughts and/or struggles with discipline and legalism. I’d love to hear from you about how God has led you through these waters.
Blessings on your week!
Each week, Skipping Stones looks at a new topic or scripture with the purpose of growing in discipleship. Monday through Thursday the posts are shorter and provide a thought or two for you to mindfully consider as you go through the day. On Fridays I offer a longer post that looks at the subject of the week with a little more detail; and you have all weekend to read and reflect on your own walk with Christ!
As always, if something you read touches your heart and points you toward a deeper walk with Jesus, please Like, Comment, and Share.
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Skipping Stones 
I don’t know what your writings will bring this week, but I think I can relate.
A “middle ground,” I personally believe, is where the flesh is and remains, no matter what I try to do.
I am always at war with myself: call it middle.
My Spirit, on the other hand, is already made righteous in Christ. I war with my fallen mind with the hope of adding to what is only perfected through the blood of Christ. I am Spirit, trying to perfect the flesh: an unending, temporal feat.
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Thanks for the comment Damon! I’m sorry for my delayed response; it’s been a busy month or so. Sometimes I question how I can even call myself a Christian with some of the thoughts that pop into my head!
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