Valuing Self-Control

Taming the Tongue

James preaches self-control in our use of God's gift of language. We often don't think twice about gossiping, using God's name in vain, telling "little white lies," or using foul language.

James warns his readers that teachers of the faith (particularly including pastors) must be aware of the fact that they will be held strictly accountable for what they say. Since people (including teachers of the faith) stumble in life, including in their speech, a teacher (pastor) must be constantly in control of his tongue.

Listening and Doing

My dear brothers(/sisters), take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires. Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. James 1:19-21

 

 

 

Read the book of James in your Bible.

* How do these verses in James encourage you to gain self-control and tame your tongue?

* How have these verses helped you speak God's promise of
Salvation?

* How can the book of James help your prayer life?

Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. James 1:22

Gentlness

Approaching Gentleness

 

When we hear the word meek, we may well think of weakness and timidity. We might imagine a person who cannot stand up and deal with the problems in life or someone who has low self-esteem or is just plain shy. This is definitely not what Jesus has in mind. Meekness and gentleness describe an attitude of humility and self-restraint. The gentle man might be very powerful, physically strong, or socially empowered, but he interacts with others out of love and compassion.

 

Peter's Advice

 

In 1 Peter 3:1-6, Peter offers a case study in gentleness as an exercise of love and Christian concern. Imagine a situation where a Christian wife is married to an unbelieving husband. How shall she win him over to Jesus?

 

     * What non-verbal witness can a wife make to her husband?

 

     * What does the world define as "beauty"?

 

     * What does God see as beautiful?

 

     * Does what Peter say in these verses sound offensive to modern ears?

 

 

 

Words to Remember

 

The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever. Psalm 23

 

To prepare for "Maintaining Self-Control," read Proverbs 25