1. The Relational Side of Discipleship For our earthly fathers disciplined us for a few years, doing the best they knew how. But God's discipline is always good for us, so that we might share in His holiness. Hebrews 12:10 (NLT)

2. And have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons? "My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor be weary when reproved by him. For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives." It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline? If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. Besides this, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us and we respected them. Shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits and live? For they disciplined us for a short time as it seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness. For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. Hebrews 12:5-11 (ESV)

3. Spiritual Formation Nurture  Nourish, feed into basic needs, provide resources  Protect, cover, and hold closely.  Care, encourage, and provide a positive environment. Discipline  Model desired behavior and invite mimicking.  Reflect words and behavior, provide feedback.  Confront, point out discrepancies with stated goals and behaviors.  Warn and set boundaries with consequences where necessary.

4. Spiritual Formation Nurture & Discipline

5. Spiritual Disciplines Inward disciplines  Meditation  Prayer  Fasting  Study Outward disciplines  Simplicity  Solitude  Submission  Service Corporate disciplines  Confession  Worship  Guidance  Celebration From “Celebration of Discipline” by Robert Foster.

6. 1. Model desired behavior and invite mimicking. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me-- practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:9 (ESV) Discipline

7. 2. Reflect words and behavior, provide feedback. The ear that listens to life- giving reproof will dwell among the wise. Whoever ignores instruction despises himself, but he who listens to reproof gains intelligence. The fear of the LORD is instruction in wisdom, and humility comes before honor. Proverbs 15:31-33(ESV) Discipline Johari Window

8. 3. Confront: point out discrepancies between stated goals and behaviors. But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed…the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 3:14-17 (ESV) Discipline “Confrontation is not a direct, harsh challenge but is a more gentle skill that involves listening to clients carefully and respectfully and helping them examine themselves or their situations more fully. Confrontation is not ‘going against’ the client; it is ‘going with’ the client; seeking clarification and the possibility of a new resolution of difficulties. Think of confrontation as a supportive challenge.” – Ivey & Ivey, Essentials of Intentional Interviewing

9. 4. Warn and set boundaries with consequences where necessary. If anyone does not obey what we say in this letter, take note of that person, and have nothing to do with him, that he may be ashamed. Do not regard him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother. 2 Thessalonians 3:13-16 (ESV) Discipline Love does not tolerate abuse. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 1 Corinthians 13:6 (NIV)

10. Questions for reflection:  Our fathers disciplined as it seemed best to them. Do you appreciate the discipline you received or do you resent it? Today is an opportunity to forgive where necessary and express gratitude where appropriate.  Is discipline a personal choice that you have made? What spiritual disciplines is God calling you to exercise?  Have you earned the right to speak into someone’s life? Who has your permission to tell you what you may not want to hear?