Day 1- CONTROL IT

Selfless acts have two important character qualities: humility and self-control.
The challenge is to learn the value of self-control and then we will dig a little deeper later on this week. Read each verse and take notes:
Proverbs 25:28, Galatians 5:22-23, 2 Peter 1:5-7, 2 Timothy 1:7, Proverbs 16:32
Sum up all the things you learned about self-control.
From what you have read so far, what value does self-control have in serving God?
Do you have self-control? Be specific. Write down areas where you have good self-control and write down some areas where you don’t.

Day 2- TIME FOR PRACTICE

You are human and the normal human tendency is to only consider yourself. Since you are a sinful human, you have to train yourself to be selfless just like an athlete trains to compete. How do you train to be selfless? It’s simple, you practice self-control.
Read 1 Corinthians 9:24-27
What are ways an athlete has self-control? If they don’t have self-control are they able to compete to the level of their potential? What are some general ways you can have self-control as you follow Christ? Are there ways that He asks you to have self-control?

Day 3- YOUR SELF-CONTROL COACH

Read Titus 2:11-13
Our salvation comes from God’s grace and it teaches us what?
We are to live self-controlled and godly lives when?
We are to do these things while we wait for what?
Read Matthew 6:20
What are you to “store up”? What are some examples of treasures stored up in heaven?
Most of what keeps you selfish is the desire for the things on earth. God wants you to give up those earthly things that are temporary and focus on what has more value.

Day 4- SEIZE THE OPPORTUNITY

God doesn’t give you self-control on a platter. Self-control has to be experienced.
Instead of giving you self-control, He gives you opportunities to practice your self-control.
Read James 1:2-4. Why does God test your faith? What does God test your faith with?
What are some ways that God could test your self-control?
What are some ways that God has tested your self-control? How did you do?
Read Matthew 25:23
What does God say to His faithful servant? If you are called to do everything to please the Lord wouldn’t this be the greatest gift ever to hear?

Day 5- YOU HAVE HELP

God gives you opportunities to practice and learn self-control, but He doesn’t leave you alone. He will help you. Read James 1:2-5
If you need help when you are tested by trials, who is there to help you?
What are some ways God is there to help you? What has He given you to guide you?
Who can He use to challenge you with His wisdom?
God tests you with trials but He will not tempt you. It is your adversary the devil who will tempt you to engage in sin.
Read 1 Corinthians 10:13. What does God give you when you are tempted?
Can you handle any temptation that comes your way?