Self-Control

                                               When The Door Slams

Keep your heart with all diligence,                                                                                                        For out of it spring the issues of life.
                                                                                                                                Proverbs 4:23

       How much unnecessary effort and worry do we put into trying to change things that are out of our control? We cannot change other people and this irritated some of us. We can only change ourselves. As you read this you may be feeling as if your life is out of control. Solomon clearly states that we have to exercise self-control in four ways.

       We are to control our heart with with all diligence. The heart is more than our mind or emotions; it encompasses our values. We are in control our of character. We are also to be in control of our communication. Not only are we in charge of what we say, we are in control of how we say it. Each of us would be healthier if we would contemplate (think about) before we communicate.We are also in control of what we concentrate on.

       Think about this: Do we see the good in people, the opportunity in challenges, and the possibilities, even in pain? Do we look at our world with eyes of faith, or do we view ourselves as victims of fake news?  Do we focus on things that are true, noble, wise, pure, lovely, of good report and praiseworthy, or are we critical, condemning, and ill-tempered? The choice is ours.The last thing we can control, according to this passage, is our conduct. We must be responsible for how we act.

       Listen: If we focus on the four areas over which we do have control, we will be so busy there won't be any time or energy left to try to change anyone else.

Ask the Spirit to search your heart and reveal any areas of unconfessed sin.                      Acknowledge these to the Lord and thank Him for His forgiveness.