Taylor, R.S. (1974). The disciplined life. Minneapolis, MN: Bethany House.

OVERVIEW

Dr. Richard Taylor makes a strong case for living the "disciplined" life as a primary goal for Christians. The author states that, as Christians, we are obligated to God to do our best in all aspects of daily life and, to achieve this obligation, discipline is needed. Outlined throughout are reasons for discipline, warnings against the pitfalls of discipline, and suggestions on improving discipline.

The first part of this book centers on "The Place of Discipline in Christian Living." Discipline is equaled to power. Discipline is responsible for achieving self-restraint and self-control within ones' life. This power of self-control flows into all areas of an individual's life and it provides a strong balance between mental, physical, and spiritual. "It is still true that the man who learns to 'keep his body under' is more likely to avoid being not only a castaway spiritually but a castaway physically." (p. 20) This same theme of discipline and balance is stated yet another way; "disciplined character belongs to the person who achieves balance by bringing all his faculties and powers under control." (p. 22)

Taylor feels that discipline is a mark of maturity in any person's life. To the Christian, discipline means discipleship-following Jesus, with one's self denied and one's cross resolutely carried." (p. 26) This depends on where an individual's motives lie; if they are selfish ambitions, the discipline will not lead to a strong character. Only when the sole motivation for discipline is to serve the Lord will a disciplined life be of full worth. We are warned in the pages of this book not to let our discipline become a master nor is it to get so rigid that we are lost if all that we have planned does not come to fruition. There needs to be change in our lives or stagnation will occur. There is a true connection between discipline and holiness. Holiness is not a result of discipline. "It can be said that entire sanctification is the secret of successful Christian discipline, and in return, maintained discipline is a necessary aid in maintaining holiness." (p. 54)

The second part of this book is on "The Path to Discipline in Christian Living." Taylor offers strong advice on gaining discipline. He stresses there are "no short cuts" in developing discipline to the fullest. Taylor unites all that was stated in the first section into practical applications for everyday life.

IMPLICATIONS

• Being disciplined with the right motives will provide one true happiness, because one is living in the center of God's will. This book is an excellent guide for Christians and their relationship with God. The only criterion is a willing heart.
• Purpose and fulfillment come with this type of lifestyle.
• If we set a lifestyle that is disciplined, it gives us a standard for measurement and a means to evaluate ourselves as we become the people we want to be. We also need to grow and become whole to the Creator who created us. If we live a disciplined life within the laws of creation, then we can move toward that life through that discipline.