I’m not much of a linguist, but when I typed the word discipline above, I immediately noticed that it looks a lot like the word disciple.   Since I want to be a follower of Christ, a disciple, then I guess it follows that I could use some discipline.

I have selective discipline.  I will follow a strict regimen and a very structured life — if it brings me some sort of desired result — within a time frame that I find suitable.  Think about how ridiculous that sounds.  I am disciplined when it suits me?  Why, that’s not discipline at all!

Regularly, I will adopt some sort of prayer schedule.  Sometimes I’ll get up early in the morning and begin with the Divine Office.  After a few days I will decide to sleep in, and I’ll just pray the Rosary on the way to work.  The following week, I’ll totally abandon prayer.  It’s a viscious cycle.  I keep repeating it.

Prayer and a disciplined spiritual life are critical for me to stay close to God.  When I stay close to God, I make good, selfless decisions.  When I turn my back on Him, I end up doing things that will eventually have me crawling back into the confessional.

For some reason, the simple things are always the most difficult for me.  The answer to my spiritual troubles is very simple — I need to pray, fast, and serve God before all others.  If only it was that easy.

Does anyone have any guidance that they wish to share?