2 Timothy 1:7 says, “For God has not given to us a spirit of fear, but of power, of love, and a sound mind.” What is a sound mind? The word, as used here, can also mean an orderly or disciplined mind. In fact, we need to be disciplined in all areas of our life, not just the mind, although that is a good place to start.
A disciplined mind is one that is under control, it does not flitter around like a hummingbird. To have a disciplined mind indicates that one is in the process of renewing it to the Word of God so that it does not think contrary to what God desires.
Can you see the word ‘disciple’ in discipline? One who is a disciple of Jesus will need to be a disciplined person to be able to resist the flesh, worldly thoughts, and one’s own ideas as to how God should act.
One who has a disciplined mind will be one whom God can trust! I had the privilege to teach at Dr. Lester Sumrall’s Bible College and make a few speaking engagements with him. Riding back in his plane, he told me how the Lord appeared to him in Jerusalem about starting the Joseph program where American pastors and churches would partner with third-world pastors and pray for and give finances to help them. He said to the Lord “I am 75 years old and why are you just now directing me to do this?” And the Lord responded, “I have just now gotten you to the place that I can trust you!”
God can use anyone who will submit to His Lordship, but those who are disciplined are the ones who last decade after decade because they are disciplined and know that good times and bad times happen but God remains faithful to Himself, His Word, and His children!
Can God use us? Perhaps an inventory of our life will reveal a need to be more disciplined in the Word, prayer, church attendance, finances, taking care of our possessions, and life in general. If areas need to be improved, I suggest starting by renewing the mind with the Word of God, specifically with those “great and precious promises” He has made to us!