Mind:
In order to practice Self-Control, we need to become conscious of our habits, how we spend our time, or what we consume.
Keep a journal this week of a particular habit that may need to be reined in with self-control. Note:
- When or with whom it occurs through the week.
- What are your reflex responses?
- What would self-control look like?
Body:
Our lives are very cluttered. The discipline of fasting is self-control in action. Fasting is an active and time limited simplicity. It clears the clutter, quells the noise, makes room for God to speak and move in our lives.
Make a plan to fast from technology this week. What will you commit to?
- Putting your phone away during meals or after 9pm?
- Limiting screen time to a certain amount of time?
What will you choose instead?
- Presence with others around the table?
- Presence with God in prayer?
- A good night’s rest?
Spirit:
“Confession is good for the soul.”
Find a trusted friend with whom to share your confession, or write it out in a journal. Sharing our confession with another person or getting it out of our head and seeing it written down on paper heightens our awareness of our ongoing need for self-control in that area and helps us to be more accountable in our behavior.
By Rev. Jayne Davis