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Hello dear, today I will be telling you a story about two children. I trust you will learn from what they did in understanding self-control.

Anne is a five-year-old girl who loves chocolates, but her mum only gives her chocolates once in a while. There is this new girl in Anne’s class who also loves chocolate and brings it to school all the time.

It was already Wednesday and Anne’s mum had not given her any chocolate that week. She wanted at least just a little taste of it, as it felt so long since she tasted chocolate. Here comes the new classmate with two big chocolate bars, and Anne was tempted to beg for just a bite. Since she knew begging was wrong, she choose to have self-control over that situation and walk away, resisting the urge to beg.

Another story is Joe’s story. Joe is a 7 years old boy in primary four. One day, he got into a fight with one of his classmates. This classmate of his called him names, provoking Joe who gave him a punch on the face in return.

Between Anne and Joe, who do think showed self-control?

Anne! That’s correct.

I told you yesterday that Self-control is the ability to control one’s emotions or behaviour, especially in difficult situations. Understanding self-control is important.

I also showed you what the Bible says about self-control

… Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control. Proverbs 25:28 – (NIV)

You see, God has made this easy for you and me. How do I know?

See what the Bible says;

For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. 12 It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, – Titus 2:11-12 [NIV]

One amazing thing I want to show you today is that the Holy Spirit can actually help you have self-control. It’s one of the fruits of the spirit listed in the Bible.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, (23) gentlenesses, and self-control. Gal 5:22-23 (NIV)

If you find yourself acting like little Joe in our story, pray and ask the Holy Spirit to help you.

Prayer:
Lord, help me in understanding self-control, and to live a self-controlled life. Amen

Action point:
Ask the Holy Spirit for help

Declaration:
I have self- control

Read yesterday’s article here

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