BE SELF-CONTROLLED Tuesday – July 20, 2010

BE SELF-CONTROLLED Tuesday – July 20, 2010

“But since we belong to the day, let us be self-controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:8

In January 2010, in a series of studies involving hundreds of volunteers, researchers have found that watching or even thinking about someone with good self-control makes others more likely exert self-control. Researchers at the University of Georgia found that the opposite holds, too, so that people with bad self-control influence others negatively. The effect is so powerful, in fact, that seeing the name of someone with good or bad self-control flashing on a screen for just 10 milliseconds changed the behavior of volunteers.
“The take home message of this study is that picking social influences that are positive can improve your self-control,” said lead author Michelle vanDellen, a visiting assistant professor in the UGA department of psychology. “And by exhibiting self-control, you’re helping others around you do the same.”

When we look to Christ and follow Him, we will be self-controlled. Our behavior then brings glory to the Lord. Today in prayer, as you face choices and challenges this day, ask “What would Jesus do?” and follow Him.

“Control your appetites before they control you.” – John Climacus

God’s Word: “Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.” – 1 Peter 1:13