Practice Self-Discipline

For a servant... discipline is needed.
Proverbs 29:19

Solomon said, "It is better to have self-control than to conquer a city" (Proverbs 16:32 NLT). So, how are you doing when it comes to self-control? Here are some nuts-and-bolts things you can start doing to make it more of a reality in your life.

a) Begin your day by doing the hard things first.
If you get side tracked, make yourself go back and complete them. For example, make your bed, pick up your clothes and wash the dishes; don't make extra work for others: "Work hard at whatever you do" (Ecclesiastes 9:10 ). And don't start several projects at once; do one thing at a time.
(b) Discipline yourself to be punctual.
Tardiness is a hard habit to break. To conquer it you must be willing to call it what it is - inconsiderate, selfish behaviour.
(c) Plan ahead.
Everything takes longer than you think, so don't wait until the last minute then rush around like a chicken with its head cut off. Living under the gun can give you ulcers, whereas allowing yourself extra time is good for your health and brings peace.
(d) Accept correction from those who care about you without sulking or retaliating.
The Bible says, "Wisdom is found in those who take advice" (Proverbs 13:10 ). If you're wise you'll welcome feedback and seek counsel.
Gandhi once said, "There's always a limit to self-indulgence, but none to self-restraint." So ask God to help you control your unruly thoughts, feelings, desires and behaviour. Identify unmanageable areas in your life, ditch the excuses, face the truth even when it hurts, refuse to feel sorry for yourself, and set a few attainable goals. In other words, "Learn to sense what is vital… and of real value" (Philippians 1:10 ).

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