In a world constantly offering quick fixes, fleeting pleasures, and distractions, it’s easy to turn to comfort rather than cultivate the discipline we need. And when life gets hard—when anxiety sets in, health falters, or circumstances change—it’s even more tempting to seek escape rather than face challenges with patience, courage and faith. But God calls us to experience something greater: a peace that comes not from comfort, but from confidence in His power.
The Story of Jesus in the Wilderness
One of the most powerful examples of discipline and preparation is Jesus Himself. Before He began His ministry, He was led into the wilderness for forty days, fasting and praying. During this time, He was tempted by Satan, who offered Him earthly power, relief, and comfort. Yet Jesus resisted, choosing to rely solely on God’s Word and strength rather than the shortcuts Satan offered.
Jesus’ time in the wilderness was not an easy path, but it was a necessary one. He disciplined Himself to focus on the Father’s will rather than His own comfort, preparing His heart for the trials He would face in His ministry and ultimately at the cross. This preparation wasn’t just for the wilderness; it readied Him for the greater battles ahead. His story reminds us that true strength and peace don’t come from escaping difficulty, but from depending on God in the midst of it.
Scripture to Reflect On:
“Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. And after fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry.” — Matthew 4:1-2
“No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.” — Hebrews 12:11
Cultivating a Soldier’s Heart: Discipline Over Comfort
Choosing discipline over comfort prepares us for the battles we don’t yet see. Just as Jesus fortified His spirit in the wilderness, we are called to put off distractions and our own sinful tendencies, not just in moments of crisis, but as a daily commitment to God. This is the heart of living as a Warrior, a core value of Biblical character that empowers us to face life with peace, knowing our Father is with us.
It takes intention to silence the temptations of the world and turn instead to the Lord for strength. This choice to trust God over worldly comforts prepares us to face trials with a peace that doesn’t depend on circumstance. When we cultivate this mindset, we discover that God is not only with us in times of ease but fights for us in times of struggle. We don’t have to rely on our own strength or escape, because we serve a Savior who has already won the ultimate victory.
Author: Amos Buelow - Underground Team Leader
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