Tag: Self-Control

Leading with Self-Control

Self-control is about mastery over self by becoming a servant.

When we understand the fruit of the Spirit as qualities demonstrated outwardly, towards other people, it can be confusing when we come to self-control. We often see this more inwardly focused.

This is an incorrect assumption. Self-control, like the rest, is to be focused on others, or “others-directed.” I like the term “others-centric.”

It should stand to reason that if we are others-centric we would cultivate the self-control we need, not with self as the focus but with the focus on others.

This quality will not allow us to be self-centered.

Disciplined Leaders…Part 1

The concept of discipline is prevalent throughout the Bible.

The difference between the lifestyle of the world and Christianity is one of discipline.

The Christian life is built upon discipline, or as it is often identified, self-control. However, there is a difference in these two terms. While there are areas that overlap between them, discipline adds the practices and habits of life that lend to character development. Self-control is more specific to controlling self in the area of emotions and desires.

The challenge introduced here involves learning how to develop the kind of discipline that sets Christians apart from the rest of the world.

Self-Control…

A former student, Bill West, summarized Kenneson’s approach to self-control in a powerful way.

The paradox of self-control is clearly stated, self-control is about being master over self by making self the servant (224). In both cases, the master, and subject are both self. Self-control should not be focused on self. While this at first seems to be confusing, Kenneson does a great job of explaining what he means.

Most people read the fruit of the Spirit as things to be done outward, towards other people, then come to self-control and see this as being focused inwardly. This is an incorrect assumption. Self-control, like the rest, is to be focused on others, or as Kenneson puts it ‘other-directed” (237).

I encourage you to get Kenneson’s book and read the depths of his approach to this subject.

Taking Control…

Control is the power to influence and direct people’s behavior or the course of events.

At times, someone needs to take control. We know people who are controlling. We preach about self-control. We even discuss the need to be in control

What does this mean and why is it important? 

Leaders must know when to take control. Without being controlling, they should epitomize self-control. And when someone needs to be in control, they should be our guide.

When leaders use their influence in a Biblical and godly way, the course of events can be shaped in ways that change eternity.