Self Control - How Can I Have More Of It?

Self control is something all of us say we want more of. The mystery behind it is trying to figure out the how. How do I have self control? How do I make better choices? How will I know I can trust myself? I'd like to share 3 steps to help you move in the right direction. All 3 of these come from 1 Corinthians 9:24 - 27:

"Don’t you realize that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize? So run to win! All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing. I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified."

The Summer Olympics weren't that long ago and many of us watched the track & field events. I want you to picture an Olympic runner as we go through these steps toward self control.

1. Their training requires extreme focus & self control.

A specific schedule and lifestyle must be adhered to in order for them to become their best. How does your lifestyle allow you time and opportunities to grow in the area of self control? Is it even something you pay much attention to on a regular basis or do you only think of it when you feel you've "messed up?"

2. These athletes choose to refrain from certain things that aren’t necessarily wrong in order to have peak performance.

Many unsinful things are "weights" simply because they are so time and mind consuming. It’s essential for us to "run light" in order to be successful due to the length of our course. I challenge you to think of things (activities, relationships, commitments, etc.) you can shed to run lighter. For ideas, take a look at the commitments you dread going to or the activities you procrastinate and hate yourself for.

3. These runners are focused and determined in their self control.

They can’t afford to become distracted. Distraction leads them off course from their goal. They know exactly where the finish line is and know when they've crossed it. How about you? Have you set realistic goals when it comes to self control? Just saying "I want more self control in my life" is meaningless! Get more focused - more specific and then you'll know if you're successful or not.

Self Control isn't easy. If it were, we'd never lose our cool, over eat, or do anything that's harmful to us or others. But it's not impossible to have self control in your life. Follow these 3 steps, while asking for guidance from the Holy Spirit and you're on your way.