But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.  Galatians 5:22-23

The importance of self-control is often overlooked in our busy world.  Kids want what they want and they want it now!  Unfortunately that is true for adults too.

God, who is much smarter than any of us, has given the instruction to be self-controlled.
Consider Galatians 5:22-23 – Self-control is one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit.   We’re told in 2 Peter 1:5-6 – Add to your faith, goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, and godliness.

But wait! There’s more!!
A New York Times article suggests that self-control goes hand in hand with success in education, marriage, and career.  In addition, the Journal of Pediatrics reported findings linking self-control and good health.

Parents can help their children develop this virtue.
Modeling self-control in purchases and relationships and helping children practice self-control is important. So is teaching your children how to express disappointment and frustration without tantrums. This is a part of displaying self-control.

Teaching kids self-control is a key in discipline.
A child is able to make more and more good choices as they learn to monitor their own decisions – to be self-disciplined.  Helping young children become self-disciplined will help them resist many of the temptations that come with the teenage years.

Self-control is the precursor to the best-case scenario, God-control.
Self-control and self-discipline are trumped by God-control and God-discipline. It’s never too late and it’s never too early to begin to cultivate that virtue in a child.

When have your children exhibited self-control?