Whenever we think of the word “discipline,” we’re probably filled will all sorts of negative emotions. Either we think of the pain of doing something we don’t want to do, or the thought of being punished for doing the wrong thing.

But what God showed me about discipline had nothing to do with pain and suffering. In fact, the Bible teaches something radically different about discipline than what religion taught me.

The word discipline in Scripture has more to do with “training,” or “teaching,” than punishment as we’re commonly taught. And it’s the kind of teaching or admonishment that’s meant to lead to “soundness of mind.”

Now, you might be wondering, “What does soundness of mind have to do with discipline?” Here’s the key. Check out this verse in Romans 5;

 “Consequently, just as one trespass resulted in condemnation for all people, so also one righteous act resulted in justification and life for all people.” (v. 18)

Whenever sin is present in our lives, either in mind, body, or spirit, it results in feelings of condemnation, and those feelings, if left unchecked, can lead to death (2 Corinthians 3:6).

The condemnation that weighs so heavily on our hearts is something that Jesus died to free us from. Discipline, therefore, (or God’s “teaching,” or “training,”) is designed to prevent us from experiencing the feeling of not measuring up. God accomplishes this by revealing to us his ways, showing us the path to walk in them, and empowering us to do it.

The only time discipline is painful, therefore, is when we either don’t believe what God is telling us to do, or we fail to rely on his strength to do what he says.

Put it this way. If our hearts are open to learning from our instructor, then the process doesn’t have to be painful, especially when he imparts his wisdom, discernment and mind into us to see the world from his vantage point, AND gives us his power to put that knowledge into practice.

Therefore, whenever we understand the true nature of discipline, we actually begin to look forward to God’s instruction and teaching.

When we finally understand that God speaks to us for the purpose of freeing us from the harmful effects of sin, we actually begin to live out Jesus’ planned purpose for our lives – life more abundant.