Some people are put off by religion because they see it as a set of rigid rules and regulations that they have to follow, dismissing the door that it opens to have an incredible relationship with their Creator.

It's true that being a Christian requires you to obey God's instructions on everything from how to treat people to how to show your faith in Him. But believing in Him, accepting His Son as your Saviour and following His guidance on how to live righteously doesn't negate your freedom—it facilitates your freedom instead. "So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." (John 8:36)

All sorts of professionals pride themselves on self-discipline to achieve their potential. Athletes stick to strict diets and workout routines to improve their fitness and competing abilities. Writers have regimens to help them stick to deadlines while entrepreneurs are known for their eye-watering early starts.

Just like those who perform self-discipline to reach athletic and academic goals, we Christians need to exercise our self-control to help us stay on track in pursuit of our spiritual goals of growing closer to Christ and becoming more like Him.

If you're feeling stifled by the thought of disciplining yourself, having difficulty explaining to a friend how essential it is or you just want a brief refresher on how self-discipline impacts your spiritual life, you can meditate on any of these seven Bible verses.