Self-denial is a must: Stop kidding yourself that you can develop self-control without giving up some of the things you like to do. give up the move, refuse the sweet, turn off the TV, shorten the telephone call, refrain from telling the story . . . Where will you start to say no to yourself? Don’t consider it a decision against some form of fun, but a decision for some desired goal. You might even offer the sacrifice of an innocent pleasure as a prayer for another who needs God’s help in some manner.
I’ve noticed often that the more small pleasure a person gives up to concentrate on one important task, the stronger he becomes. Jesus Christ was the greatest example of One Who depended on self-denial for strength to perform His ministry. And He put it in these words to His disciples: “If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” (Matthew 16:24)
Remember that the ultimate in self-control is not for you to become master of your fate, but to be above to serve a higher Master. -N.V.P.
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