The inner man is defined as the non-material part of a human being, which the Bible often refers to as the heart. It is composed of two distinct parts: the spirit and the soul, while the physical body serves as the "house" or temple for this internal reality. A critical distinction is made between the two: the spirit is regenerated 100% at the moment of the new birth, becoming a perfect new creation. This process is described as a "circumcision of the heart," where the Word of God acts as a sword to cut away the fleshly nature from the spirit. Romans 2:28-29 emphasizes that true circumcision is an inward work of the Spirit rather than a physical one. Whereas the soul [mind, will and emotions] is the part of the inner man that requires continual renewal day by day according 2 Corinthians 4:16.

To become a truly disciplined man, a believer must align their soul with their regenerated Spirit through study and application of Scripture. Ezra 7:10 outlines a three-step process for discipline: seeking [studying] the law [Word] of the Lord, doing it and teaching it to others. This discipline is necessary because, as Romans 7:22-25 describes, there is often a "war" in the mind between the law of God and the law of sin. By abiding in the Word, as instructed in John 8:31-32, believers become "disciples" or "disciplined ones," who know the truth that sets them free from the lies of the Devil.

Ultimately, Proverbs 4:20-27 teaches that keeping the heart with all diligence allows the "issues of life" to flow out from the Spirit, through a disciplined soul and into outward actions that manifest the love and power of God to the world. Join me as I share these Scriptures and more to build your faith for boldness to share the Good News with those around you. Selah!

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