How to Develop Discipline as a Christian
Matthew BellShare
In a fast-paced, convenience-driven world, developing discipline can feel like an uphill battle. We often start with good intentions—prayer routines, Bible reading plans, healthier habits—but somewhere along the way, distractions set in, motivation fades, and we fall back into old patterns. The good news? God doesn’t just call us to discipline—He equips us for it.
Discipline is not about perfection or performance; it’s about daily faithfulness. It’s the training ground where character is formed, spiritual maturity grows, and we become more like Christ. So how do we, as Christians, cultivate discipline that lasts?
Let’s explore what the Bible says, how to apply it, and how the Holy Spirit helps us build a life of godly discipline.
What Is Christian Discipline?
Christian discipline means more than just willpower. It’s about surrendering to God’s ways, aligning our lives with His Word, and consistently choosing what’s right over what’s easy. It includes spiritual practices like prayer, Bible study, worship, fasting, and resisting sin, but it also touches every area of life—relationships, finances, work, rest, and time management.
In essence, discipline is the daily decision to walk in obedience to God, even when it’s inconvenient or uncomfortable.
1 Corinthians 9:27 (KJV) says:
“But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means,
when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.”
The Apostle Paul reminds us that discipline is necessary to live a life that honors God. Even the strongest believers must choose to bring their desires and habits under the authority of Christ.
Step 1: Start With the Right Motivation
Before we talk about habits and routines, let’s address the heart. Many people attempt to become disciplined out of guilt, fear, or pride. But biblical discipline flows from a desire to please God and become more like Jesus.
Colossians 3:23 (KJV) says:
“And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.”
Our discipline isn’t to impress others or earn God's love—it’s a response to the love we’ve already received. Ask yourself: Why do I want to grow in this area? Is it rooted in worship, or in self-effort? When your motivation is God-centered, your discipline becomes an act of devotion, not drudgery.
Step 2: Establish Daily Habits of Faith
Spiritual discipline is built on daily decisions, not occasional inspiration. Just like a healthy body is built with consistent exercise and good food, a healthy soul is built by feeding on the Word and spending time with God regularly.
Psalm 1:2-3 (KJV) describes the disciplined believer:
“But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.
And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season…”
Reading Scripture daily, praying, and meditating on God's Word is not about checking a box—it’s about being rooted in truth so you can stand strong when storms come. Start small. Set a time each day—morning, lunch break, or evening—and commit to spending 10–15 minutes with God.
As you grow, that time will become a lifeline, not a chore.
Step 3: Learn to Say “No” to Say “Yes”
Discipline is not only about what you add—it’s also about what you remove. Developing discipline means saying “no” to distractions, bad habits, and things that pull your focus from what truly matters.
Titus 2:11-12 (KJV) explains this well:
“For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,
Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts,
we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world.”
God’s grace empowers us to say no to sin, temptation, laziness, and excuses. This isn’t about harsh legalism—it’s about living in alignment with your calling. Discipline requires sacrifice, but it also produces freedom. You’re no longer controlled by your impulses; you’re led by God’s Spirit.
Step 4: Be Accountable and Community-Minded
You were never meant to grow alone. One of the best ways to stay disciplined is to surround yourself with people who challenge and encourage you. Whether it’s a prayer partner, small group, or a mentor, accountability keeps you on track and helps you stay honest.
Proverbs 27:17 (KJV) says:
“Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.”
Share your goals with someone you trust. Let them pray for you, check in on your progress, and walk with you in love. You’ll find that your discipline deepens when your growth becomes relational instead of just individual.
Step 5: Don’t Quit When You Fail
Developing discipline takes time. You will stumble. You will have off days. You might fall into old habits. But don’t give up. God’s mercy is new every morning.
Proverbs 24:16 (KJV) encourages us:
“For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again…”
Discipline isn’t about perfection—it’s about perseverance. Every time you get back up, you grow stronger. Ask God for grace, repent when needed, and keep moving forward. Even small steps add up over time.
Step 6: Trust God’s Power, Not Just Your Willpower
Ultimately, discipline is a spiritual process that cannot be achieved through human effort alone. Ask the Holy Spirit to strengthen you, guide you, and give you a hunger for holiness.
Philippians 2:13 (KJV) says:
“For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.”
God is not just watching from a distance—He is actively working in you. When your strength runs out, His power steps in. Depend on Him daily, and you’ll be amazed at how discipline becomes a joy instead of a burden.
Final Thoughts
Discipline is not a punishment—it’s a path to purpose. It’s how we mature, how we glorify God, and how we grow in grace. Whether you're trying to build a prayer life, overcome sin, manage your time better, or simply grow in faith, remember: you’re not doing this alone.
God is with you, shaping you day by day into the image of Christ. Stay faithful. Keep showing up. And celebrate the progress, not just the perfection.
Did This Help You?
If this blog helped you understand how to develop godly discipline, please share it with a friend who could benefit from it too. You never know how one word of encouragement could spark change in someone’s life.
