Teach to be Self-Controlled

Until now, I have been writing of being self-controlled. As I read this morning, I am reminded to teach self-control to others.

“¹But as for you, teach what accords with sound doctrine. ²Older men are to be sober-minded, dignified, self-controlled, sound in faith, in love, and in steadfastness. ³Older women likewise are to be reverent in behavior, not slanderers or slaves to much wine. They are to teach what is good, ⁴and so train the young women to love their husbands and children, ⁵to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled. ⁶Likewise, urge the younger men to be self-controlled.” – Titus 2:1-6 (ESV)

Paul writes to Titus encouraging him and providing wisdom in his work for Christ. Here in Chapter 2 Paul gives Titus guidance in teaching sound doctrine. I notice that Paul does not leave out any demographic. He speaks of men and women, old and new. And with all of them he brings forward the teaching that they should be self-controlled. All should be self-controlled in their approach to life as a follower of Christ.

I am at a point in my life that I study, study, and study. Whether it is how to improve myself, or how to be in better alignment with God, I am committed to continue my growth. One of those areas of growth is in emotional intelligence, and what is key of emotional intelligence is being self-controlled. I am committed to improving my self-control so as to use it in my approach to spreading the gospel and honoring God.

“¹¹For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, ¹²training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, ¹³waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, ¹⁴who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works.” – Titus 2:11-14 (ESV)

I have accepted the gift of salvation and with that gift God is training me to do His work here in this world. Part of that work is what I do here, sharing my thought and teaching God’s word.

When you are in the world, are you aware that all are to live by the same qualities? Self-control is not just for you, but for those all around you, are you holding them to that standard? Are you working to teach self-control to all with the intention that they use it to further the gospel?