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