Disciplined Living

“We hear that some among you are leading an undisciplined life, doing no work at all, but acting like busybodies … we command and exhort … to work peacefully and eat their own bread … brothers and sisters, do not grow weary of doing good.”—2 Thessalonians 3:11–13 NASB

The supernatural was a central part of Paul’s ministry; he frequently taught about God’s power and demonstrated miracle-working power. But he was also concerned about practical matters.

For example, in writing to Christians in Thessalonica, he stressed the importance of living a disciplined life. He heard that some believers were “undisciplined.” The Greek word here has its roots in the military, referring to the response of soldiers to a commander.

As believers, we are to be like soldiers who obey their commander. We are to recognize that we have been given assignments and resources. God looks to see how we respond and whether we are faithful and good stewards of our time, energies, and resources.

Paul knew some believers did not have this discipline, “doing no work at all, but acting like busybodies.” Paul instructed these people to put the gifts God had given them into practice and be good examples for others.

Being a Christian was not an excuse for laziness. Even those who are born again still should put their gifts and talents into practice. All of us should “work peacefully and eat [our] own bread.”

Paul knew subjects like discipline can seem unspiritual. His instruction: We must not “grow weary of doing good.” We need to stay faithful and be good stewards of the resources God has given us, living disciplined lives, pleasing God with our choices, and being good examples for others.

Reflection Question: How are you stewarding the resources God’s given you?