This week we are going to focus on self-control and self-discipline. While the dictionary definitions of these words make them almost interchangeable, there are some slight differences in how these words can be interpreted in the English language:

Action vs. Inaction: Some people say one of the biggest differences between self-control and self-discipline is response. Self-control is often a “No”/inaction response - Choosing NOT to eat dessert or choosing NOT to hit snooze on your morning alarm. Self-discipline on the other hand is often a “Yes”/action response - choosing to get up and go to the gym when you would normally sleep in.

Reaction v. Response: Another small distinction made between self-control & self-discipline is the duration of the response. Self-control is often more of an immediate reaction to a circumstance. Choosing not to give into a short-term comfort or take the easy way out. Meanwhile, self-discipline is usually looking at a long-term response that requires building habits. Choosing to create routines where you are taking the harder path of discomfort for long-term gain.

That’s great. But what does all of this have to do with our faith? We read in Galatians 5:22-23, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” The fruit of the Spirit are characteristics that should be evident in the lives of all believers due to the Holy Spirit’s presence & governance in their lives. Self-control is listed last in this list, but it is by no means a lesser trait. Self-control is what allows believers to run from temptation. Self-control develops self-discipline which helps us develop a lifestyle that is governed by God and his commands rather than the temptations and comforts this fallen world has to offer.

Your Monday Mission this week is to analyze the self-discipline present in your life. Are you using self-control and self-discipline to help you turn from temptations and towards Christ?

Photo by Fitsum Admasu on Unsplash