The New York Giants are one of the most disappointing teams so far this NFL season. They made a great comeback on Sunday, but in the end lost by a field goal to the Philadelphia Eagles.
Despite having high expectations, the Giants have yet to win a game, which has led to lots of finger-pointing and questioning.
How could an offense with Eli Manning, Odell Beckham Jr., Brandon Marshall, and Sterling Shepard have such a tough time consistently getting into the end zone?
A columnist for NJ.com, Steve Politi, wrote a column about their struggles with the headline, “Undisciplined Giants Won’t Dig Out of this 0-3 Hole, and that’s on Ben McAdoo.”
He told about the team’s ten penalties, including the four costly ones on their final two drives, and Manning’s two interceptions.
Breaking down their issues and the bleak outlook they have for the rest of the season, Politi ended his column by saying, “Penalties, mental breakdowns, dumb decisions – the Giants are an undisciplined team right now, and that starts at the top.”
We know how important it is for a team to be disciplined if they want to win a championship, but ultimately it takes each individual player being self-disciplined.
When it comes to our own lives, there is also tremendous value in being self-disciplined. We face major issues and find ourselves in “0-3 holes” when we’re out of control, disobedient, and rebellious. But, with self-discipline, we’re able to stick to plans, be reliable, and accomplish great things.
We actually become more disciplined when we let go and surrender to Jesus while relying on His strength to avoid “penalties, mental breakdowns, and dumb decisions.”
When we do things God’s way, with His Spirit guiding us, we’re able to remain committed, level-headed, self-controlled, and show restraint and resolve.
Although not easy, when we’re living a self-disciplined life we know what is right and what is needed to pursue important goals and purposes.
Paul recognizes the importance of self-discipline when he writes in 1 Corinthians 9:26-27 (ESV):
“So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.”
Today, let’s be encouraged to know that when we rely on God’s power within us, we can remain disciplined and stay on track.
Let’s remember what the Bible tells us in 2 Timothy 1:7 (NLT): “For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.”
I’m Bryce Johnson and you can unpack that!
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I know I fall short when I try to be disciplined in my own strength. Please help me trust You to remain committed and restrained, and rely on Your spirit and power within me. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
