Building Blocks for Life:

Being Self-Disciplined

Defined•Self-control is defined as “the ability to control one’s emotions or behavior, especially in difficult situations.” •We must exercise restraint over our impulses, emotions, words and deeds.

Memory Verses•Memory verses for this lesson come from Paul’s letter to the Romans and the epistle of James (Rom. 12:1-2; James 3:6).

Romans 12:1-2, NASB• Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the

mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. • And do not be conformed to this world,

but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.

James 3:6, NASB•And the tongue is a fire, the very world of iniquity; the tongue is set among our members as that which defiles the entire body, and sets on fire the course of our life, and is set on fire by hell.

Positive Examples•Daniel•Paul

Daniel•Daniel and his friends demonstrated self-control regarding food and drink (Dan. 1:8-21).

Paul•The apostle Paul demonstrated self-control in running the Christian race (1 Cor. 9:24-27; 2 Tim. 4:6-8).

Negative Examples•Cain•Felix

Cain•Cain demonstrated a lack of self-control regarding his attitude and actions (Gen. 4:1-8; 1 John 3:11-16).

Felix•Felix demonstrated a lack of self-control regarding his privileged lifestyle and public responsibilities (Acts 24:24-27).

Application

• Self-control is necessary to do those things commanded by God,

• to abstain from things forbidden by God, and

• to practice with moderation things allowed by God.

Application

•Specifically, we need to control our thoughts, our words, and our deeds (Prov. 29:11; Mark 7:20-23; Eph. 4:25-32; James 3:2-12).

Conclusion & Challenge•Someone who has self-control

evidences strength, while those who lack self-control evidence weakness. •As Joshua was admonished, “Be

strong and courageous” (Josh. 1:6-9), Christians have the same duty (1 Cor. 16:13-14; Eph. 6:10-17; 2 Tim. 2:1-7).

Conclusion & Challenge•Are you showing strength or weakness? •May God help us to develop self-control in all areas of life.