Monthly Archives: August 2017

Self-discipline

Self-discipline is a fruit you grow!

Listed in Galatians 5:22-23 as one of the fruit of the Spirit you find self-control. We gain benefit in disciplining the body so that it will profit a little (1 Timothy 4:8). How much more attention should we pay to development or growth of the fruit of God’s Spirit in our lives? In this case, we have a double benefit in developing self-discipline. Our bodies and our spirits advance. A true 2 for 1 sale! I, for one, like to work on them both at the same time! I love to pray in English and in the Spirit while I exercise my body!

Your body is designed to go and do! Your mind (what you think), will (what you do), and your emotions (how you feel) — these three comprise your soul. When you are Born Again (John 3:3,5,7) or born from above, you receive a spirit. So, you are Spirit, Soul, and Body.

Spirit, Soul, and Body

When you allow God’s Spirit to be in control or in the lead position, the Soul and Body will follow, and Christ will live through you as a believer. His plans are to see you at your very best! The car manufacturers include an owner’s manual, that will if followed, keep the car at peak performance levels. The Word of God is exactly that for the believer. It will help you develop self-discipline in all three areas of your life. The Bible will help you discover who you are and produce much greater results than just working on your abs! Don’t just punish your body, but grow some fruit! In fact, the whole list is in Galatians 5:22-23:

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control (or self-discipline). Against such, there is no law!

That is really good news! You can operate in the fruit of the Spirit and not break any laws! Notice that fruit is singular! The whole list develops in you, and they all work by love (Galatians 5:6). Exercise your body, but don’t forget, self-discipline is a fruit you grow!

Blessings!

Self-Control – Titus 1:8; 1 Corinthians 7:9; 2 Timothy 3:3

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www.byfredhughes.com ~ www.decision1.org

Simplicity

The pure joy of life is found in simplicity! As a professional photographer, I have studied under some great masters of imagery. Without exception, the true artist in almost every expressive medium will tell you that simplicity is their most powerful and trustworthy tool. As musicians, artists, photographers, writers, we all understand the value of simplicity. However, it is the most often overlooked element in the creative process.

The power of simplicity is that it overcomes confusion and wisely communicates clarity. ~ Fred Hughes ~

Simplicity is not just reducing something to the lowest possible existence. It is much more akin to highlighting or bringing contrast to what is important. Identify the intended subject of the image, description, sound or concept. Simplicity skillfully presents clarity. The only major challenge with simplicity is that it is often dismissed or overlooked because it is so simple!

Just because something is simple does not mean that it is not complex or profound.

John 3:16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

Simple, but very profound with huge impact! A seven-year-old child can understand and receive the benefits of this powerful but simple Scripture. This 67-year-old is still amazed by the depth of its meaning.

Simplicity: it clears the clutter and reveals the main focus, so the true value can be seen.

Read this and other blog posts on our websites.

www.byfredhughes.com ~ www.decision1.org