Why can’t I lose weight? Why can’t I get in shape? Why can’t I consistently spend time with God? Why can’t I get out of debt? Why can’t I break this bad habit? Maybe it is because of a lack of self-control. Could it be that many, if not most, of our personal problems are caused by a lack of self-control.
Self-control is one of the best friends we can have. It will enable us to become the people we want to be and to perform the activities we want to do. We need to cherish this friend always. It is a real lifesaver.
Yet self-control exacts a high price.
Following one of the outstanding performances of famed Polish concert pianist Ignacy Paderewski, a fan said to him, “I’d give my life to play like that.” The brilliant pianist replied, “I did.”
On another occasion, Paderewski was asked by a fellow pianist if he could be ready to play a recital on short notice. The famous musician replied, “I am always ready. I have practiced eight hours daily for forty years.”
The other pianist said, “I wish I had been born with such determination.”
Paderewski replied, “We are all born with it. I just used mine.”
We can’t become concert pianists just by exercising enough self-control, but when it comes to living effectively each day, we have the makings of triumph if we will apply our wills and come under God’s control and pay the price.
Self-control has your best interest at heart. People exercising self-control are happier and healthier because they are fulfilling their inner potential. It is one of the best friends anyone could have.
“Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city.” (Proverbs 16:32)
From Devotional for Men
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