Punishment - a penalty inflicted for an offense.

Discipline - activity, exercise, or a regimen that develops or improves a skill; training.
"Discipline is the training necessary to lead a child to maturity."

Disciple - activity, exercise, or a regimen that develops or improves a skill; training.

What is the 'therefore' there for?

The great, faithful and faith-filled leaders of Hebrews 11 are an inspiration.

The Christian life is a race- not a sprint, but a marathon.

Part I: Set aside anything that causes you to lose focus.

Throw off distractions, sins, obstacles, relationships that keep you from Jesus.

Part II: Focus on Jesus.

Philippians 3:13-14 NIV
Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

2 Timothy 4:6-8 NIV
For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.

1. The discipline of God comes from a place of love. v. 6

Romans 8:28 NIV
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

2. The discipline of God is spiritual in nature. v. 9

3. The discipline of God leads to holiness and peace. v. 11

v. 14 "Make every effort..."
Discipleship can be tiring and takes a long time.

v. 15 "See to it..."
Keep going. Don't give up.

Discipleship is a two-way proposition.
God does things for us, but we also do things to support our faith.

(Some) Spiritual Disciplines:
Bible reading
Bible study
Prayer
Journaling
Hymn singing
Meditation
Fasting
Silence
Fellowship
Contemplation
Worship
Stewardship