Bible Study Part #2
Leaders Are Called To A Higher Standard
The Bible is filled with examples of leaders being called to a higher standard. Titus, Timothy, James encourage Christians to implement discipline in order to rise to this higher standard.
1 Tim 4 “Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness; for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.”
1 Cor 9:27 “But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.”
James 3:11 “Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.”
Discipline & the Five Areas of Health
We believe health is included in the high standard of discipline. A higher standard of discipline can lead us to experience longevity in ministry. Health means more than just the physical, it also includes the mental, emotional, spiritual, and social areas of our lives.
Our bodies allow us to serve God. Therefore we need to take care of them – with excellence!
In 2018, Forbes labeled the number 1 and 5 most stressful jobs on the planet. Can you guess? Stay-at-Home Moms and Pastors, respectively. Often, this is the scenario for families in ministry. If we are to thrive as moms and Christian leaders, we must be disciplined in caring for all five areas of our health.
What is Discipline?
Merriam Webster defines “Discipline” in several ways. One is “orderly or prescribed conduct or pattern of behavior”. In other words, self-control. Another reads “training that corrects molds or perfects the mental faculties or moral character”, “a field of study” or a “rule or system of rules governing conduct or activity”.
Compare the discipline of caring for your health to purchasing and caring for a brand new car. Does anyone drive a brand new car off the lot recklessly? Park too closely to other cars? Ignore regular oil changes and other maintenance? NO! You just invested a great deal into a vehicle for the long haul. That car needs to take you where you need to be in order to fulfill your daily responsibilities.
Just as you discipline yourself in caring for your new car, so it will be reliable for you, you must also be disciplined in caring for the five areas of health so you can lead, be relied upon and find longevity in ministry.
Your Temple
1 Cor 6:19 “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”
- How are you leading well?
- What area(s) of health are you most successful?
- What area(s) of health are you struggling to control?
- List your motivation(s) to improving your health?
- Have you ever invited Jesus to be a part in your wellness journey?
Godspeed,
The MissionFiT Team
