Written by Melanie Curtis, volunteer with Iron Rose Sister Ministries in Arkansas
What is self-discipline, and why is it so important? The Oxford Dictionary defines self-discipline as “the ability to control one's feelings and overcome one's weaknesses; the ability to pursue what one thinks is right despite temptations to abandon it.” For as long as I can remember, I have always had what I thought was a “motivation problem.” I have struggled as a chronic procrastinator and avoider of hard problems. A friend shared a concept with me that revealed that the real problem is a lack of self-discipline, not a lack of motivation.
We will not always feel motivated to do the right thing or to complete all of our tasks every minute of every day, but if we turn those tasks into habits, one by one, we are exercising self-discipline, which makes it easier to do what needs to be done even when our motivation is low.
What are some temptations you face? Do they make you want to do what you shouldn’t, or do they make you want to not do what you should (Romans 7:15-25)? Self-esteem issues, selfishness, laziness, addictions, and more can keep you from fulfilling your goals and God’s goals for your life, but those struggles can be combatted with self-discipline.
What does Jesus say about self-discipline?
Let us ask God to help us turn good tasks into habits-- into a strong self-discipline muscle that we use every day to honor him at home, at work, and most importantly, in the Kingdom of God.
