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Practice self-discipline!
'FOR A SERVANT...DISCIPLINE IS NEEDED.' PROVERBS 29:19
Solomon said, 'It is better to have self-control than to conquer a city' (see Proverbs 16:32 NLT). So, how are you doing when it comes to self-control? Here are four easy steps to start making it more of a reality in your life:
1) Don't always do the easy or fun stuff first. You know the sort of stuff that typically gets ignored; making your bed, picking up your clothes off the floor, washing the dishes! And if you get sidetracked halfway through, make yourself go back and finish the job! 'Work hard at whatever you do' (Ecclesiastes 9:10 CEV). Plus, don't start several things all at once; do one thing at a time!
2) Discipline yourself to be punctual. Lateness is a hard habit to break. To beat it you must be brave enough to call it what it is; inconsiderate, selfish behaviour.
3) Plan ahead. Everything takes longer than you think, so don't wait 'til the last minute then rush around like a chicken with its head cut off. Living under that sort of constant pressure leads to being over-stressed but getting started early will mean you enjoy doing stuff much more!
4) Accept correction without sulking or getting defensive. The Bible says, 'Wisdom is found in those who take advice' (Proverbs 13:10 NIV). If you're wise you'll welcome honest feedback about your attitude. Ask God to help you control your unruly thoughts, feelings and behaviour. Identify unmanageable areas in your life, ditch the excuses, face the truth even when it hurts, refuse to feel sorry for yourself and set a few attainable goals. 'Learn to sense what is vital...and of real value' (Philippians 1:10 AMP).
written by Bob Gass
'FOR A SERVANT...DISCIPLINE IS NEEDED.' PROVERBS 29:19
Solomon said, 'It is better to have self-control than to conquer a city' (see Proverbs 16:32 NLT). So, how are you doing when it comes to self-control? Here are four easy steps to start making it more of a reality in your life:
1) Don't always do the easy or fun stuff first. You know the sort of stuff that typically gets ignored; making your bed, picking up your clothes off the floor, washing the dishes! And if you get sidetracked halfway through, make yourself go back and finish the job! 'Work hard at whatever you do' (Ecclesiastes 9:10 CEV). Plus, don't start several things all at once; do one thing at a time!
2) Discipline yourself to be punctual. Lateness is a hard habit to break. To beat it you must be brave enough to call it what it is; inconsiderate, selfish behaviour.
3) Plan ahead. Everything takes longer than you think, so don't wait 'til the last minute then rush around like a chicken with its head cut off. Living under that sort of constant pressure leads to being over-stressed but getting started early will mean you enjoy doing stuff much more!
4) Accept correction without sulking or getting defensive. The Bible says, 'Wisdom is found in those who take advice' (Proverbs 13:10 NIV). If you're wise you'll welcome honest feedback about your attitude. Ask God to help you control your unruly thoughts, feelings and behaviour. Identify unmanageable areas in your life, ditch the excuses, face the truth even when it hurts, refuse to feel sorry for yourself and set a few attainable goals. 'Learn to sense what is vital...and of real value' (Philippians 1:10 AMP).
written by Bob Gass
