Right From The Heart 1-Minute DevotionsPrimjer

Self-Control

Do you ever say, "It was just too tempting," or "I wish I hadn't lost my cool?"

A key to successful living is self-control--controlling our emotions, desires, passions, or our tongue. Self-control is about self-discipline. The Bible compares it to sports. It says, "Run your race to win. Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things." Self-control is essential to success in living, as well as in sports.

Let me suggest a few ways to learn it:

1. Clarify your purpose--what are you trying to accomplish? Is it to lose a few pounds? Then your decisions will be shaped by that purpose.
2. Be honest with yourself about where you lack self-control. Alcoholics who find victory over booze know the first step is admitting their inability to control the problem.
3. Ask God for self-discipline.
4. Take action on that discipline, one day at a time. Self-control is a real key to successful living.