One dictionary's definition of self-discipline reads: "Self-discipline refers to the training that one gives one's self to accomplish a certain task or to adopt a particular pattern of behavior, even though one would really rather be doing something else." I have observed that when we discipline ourselves to follow a righteous path, our desire and ability to continue on that path increase as time goes on, and the things we do become those things that we would rather do.

I often think of the time in my life when I seemed to have my best self-discipline, which was while serving as a young full-time missionary in Argentina. It required great diligence in keeping the rules established by Church leaders in order to have success. Our rigorous schedule began at 6:30 a.m., with praying, exercising, holding personal and companionship study and getting out the door at a set time. We worked hard all day finding and teaching, planning at night, praying and making sure we were in bed by 10:30 p.m. At the beginning of my mission, this routine seemed overwhelming and demanding. But by the end of my mission, it had become a habit and was much easier to follow.

In my calling as a mission president's wife, I can see again the importance of self-discipline in a missionary's life. It is clear those missionaries who have mastered the discipline to obey all the mission rules and follow the schedule with diligence are those who achieve the highest success. This self-discipline seems to show the Lord they are willing to sacrifice in order to receive direction from the Spirit in greater abundance. One of our elders, who just went home after a very successful two-year mission, grew up farming in Idaho with his father. It was clear this young man had learned the self-discipline necessary to run a profitable farm. Self-discipline had become a part of who and what he is. This quality transferred in every way to his work here in the mission.

Living in Ukraine, I observe the diligent Saints who are pioneers in their own right, as the gospel is relatively new here. Their decision to follow the gospel path is not an easy one as they struggle on a daily basis to fulfill their callings, work hard, raise their families and make sacrifices to prepare for a temple, as they still travel to one located far away. Their obedience and self-discipline begin with great faith and determination to follow Christ. As a result, they receive joy and see the blessings of the gospel in their lives.

The Savior said, "If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed" (John 8:31). Let us all work for greater self-discipline, so that we may all become true disciples, continuing ever in His word.

Sister Jennefer Steinagel is serving with her husband, President Lane O. Steinagel, in the Ukraine Kiev Mission. Before their call to Ukraine, the Steinagels resided in the Lakeside 1st Ward, Provo Utah Sunset Stake.