What is Discipline?

I've been reading through a book (Embraced by the Cross by LE Maxwell) with some good friends, and this poem is in it.  It's written by Amy Carmichael, and I thought it was quite fitting for believers today. 


When I refuse the easy thing for love of my dear Lord,
And when I choose the harder thing for love of my dear Lord,
And do not make a fuss or speak a single grumbling word,
That is discipline.

When everything seems going wrong and yet I will not grouse,
When it is hot, and I am tired and yet I will not grouse,
But sing a song and do my work in school and in the house,
That is discipline.

When Satan whispers, "Scamp your work," to say to him, "I won't,"
When Satan whispers, "Slack a bit," to say to him, "I won't,"
To rule myself and now to wait for others' do and don't,
That is discipline.

To trample on that curious thing inside me that says, "I,"
To think of others always, never, never of that "I,"
To learn to live according to my Saviour's word, "Deny,"
That is discipline.


May our lives be more characterized by discipline than by selfish living!

A Poem of Regret: To My Grown-Up Son

I read this poem for the first time a few days ago, and it brought tears to me eyes. What a poem of regret. May I never echo her lament!


To My Grown-Up Son

My hands were busy through the day,
I didn't have much time to play

The little games you asked me to.
I didn't have much time for you.

I'd wash your clothes, I'd sew and cook,
But when you'd bring your picture book

And ask me, please, to share your fun,
I'd say, "A little later, Son."

I'd tuck you in all safe at night,
and hear your prayers, turn out the light,

Then tiptoe softly to the door.
I wish I'd stayed a minute more.

For life is short, and years rush past,
A little boy grows up so fast.

No longer is he at your side.
His precious secrets to confide.

The picture books are put away.
There are no children's games to play,

No good-night kiss, no prayers to hear.
That all belongs to yesteryear.

My hands once busy, now lie still
The days are long and hard to fill.

I wish I might go back and do
The little things you asked me to.

~~Alice E Chase