Self-discipline

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Self-discipline is a long-term pattern of behaviour developed through the good habits that govern self-control, the making of good choices in the immediate or present situations and is important in any endeavor of life. A self-disciplined person considers the bigger

Do I take responsibility for my life?

picture, keeping their desires in check as they consider the benefits way in the future. We must take responsibility for who we are and what we do. This desirable quality is developed by setting limits and putting off the ‘old self’ with whatever belongs to the earthly nature and putting on the qualities of the ‘new self’ (Eph 4:22-24; Col 3:5). In the Christian context, self-discipline may be summarized in one word: obedience. To exercise self-discipline is to avoid evil by staying within the bounds of God's law. The attitudes and desires of our thought life require close monitoring as we firmly say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions besides not submitting to peer pressure and instead live self-controlled, upright and godly lives, doing God’s will (Prov 4:23; Mt 15:18,19; Tit 2:11,12; 1 Pet 4:2). If a person is not self-disciplined they will be of limited value in the Kingdom of God.

A single wrong response or action, if not dealt with, can soon become a habit that increases its stranglehold with each recurrence. We are to recapture, using the power and authority of Christ, whatever strongholds the enemy has established in our minds (2 Cor 10:4,5).

The sexual realm exerts tremendous power to damage our Christian testimony, so this calls for divine assistance to reinforce our determination not to indulge in such things as looking lustfully at another (be it in reality or via pornography), fantasy involving masturbation, or any physical sexual contact (Job 31:1; Ps 101:3; Mt 5:27,28; 1 Cor 6:18).

Our eyes, thoughts and actions are all to be subject to the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit.