Learning From Paul (3)

Jesus said, “If any man would come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me” (Matthew 16:24). This is the lesson which Paul had learned when he said, “For necessity is laid upon me. Woe to me if I do not preach the Gospel!” (1 Corinthians 9:16). The discipline of discipleship - this is the challenge which Paul’s life sets before us. Are you a disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ? When Paul said, “Necessity is laid upon me”, he was not speaking of a shallow or superficial emotion. The Holy Spirit works within us so that we might learn the discipline of discipleship. When your pathway is covered with snow, what do you do? Do you clear the path because you feel like doing this? Do you clear away the snow because it has to be done? Discipline - this is what we need if the pathway is to be kept clear.