How Does God Define Discipline?

The LORD would speak to Moses face to face,

as a man speaks with his friend. Exodus 33:11

His [Moses] face was radiant because he

had spoken with the LORD. Exodus 34:29

Some of you know that my focus for this year is the word Discipline.

These two verses caught my attention as the key to and result of being disciplined.

When I think of discipline, I think of commitment: committed to God's call to write, committed to a schedule. Committed to a minimum number of words per day. 

That's my definition.

But I wonder:

What's God's definition?

Exodus 33:11 answers that question.

Face to face - God wants us to be disciplined to spend time with Him, face to face.

Not literally, like Moses did, but focused on Him.
Talking to Him.
Listening to Him.
Learning of Him through His Word.

Friend - Spend time with Him as we would a friend.
Share our needs and wants with Him.
Share our dreams.
Share our emotions.
Happiness
               Anger
                       Excitement
                                        Sorrow


When we spend time with Him, what happens?
Exodus 34:29 describes the result.

Radiant - Without even realizing it, we radiate God's love.

We glow with peace and joy.

Others see faith shining on our faces during hard times.
They see a peaceful glow in times of sorrow.
They see love when they expect anger.

If we define discipline the way God does, we'll spend time with Him.
We'll share our lives with Him.
We'll learn from Him.

We'll find the strength to obey.


That, after all, is the true definition of discipline: the surrender to obedience.



If we work on that discipline, everything else will fall into place.

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:13 
What is your definition of discipline?
What do you expect from yourself?

What does God desire for you?