Dr. Steven C. Riser

The Necessity of Discipline, Love, and Grace for Spiritual Growth

¹³Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. ¹⁴But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it. (Matthew 7:13-14)

“I want what I want when I want it” - The need for personal discipline

Dr. Steven C. Riser

Introduction

Is it possible to be practical when talking about the world of ideas, especially when considering various philosophical and religious worldviews? Since what we think affects what we do, both individually and collectively, it is not only practical but also essential if we are to be like “the men of Issachar” and “understand the times” in which we live. (1 Chr. 12:32) The aim in this article is to be brief, understandable and accurate as well as Biblical and practical. It isn’t an easy task when dealing with the way that people think, but let’s try.

A survey was conducted a few years ago by a major poll-taking organization asking more than 1000 American adults: "If you could ask God any question, what would it be?" The leading response from those polled was something to the effect of "How am I doing? ... Am I on the right track? ... Are You satisfied with my life?"

Job asks a crucial question all of us need to ask ourselves: Where can wisdom be found? (Job 28:12) The pursuit of Wisdom is a great quest to which every one is invited to join! The invitation to Wisdom's house is open to all. (Prov. 2:1-6) Growing in wisdom can make all the difference in our lives!