Self-Control
Disciplining ourselves for God's purposes in a distraction-filled digital world.
Teaching
Imagine trying to love without having any self-control.
Now prayerfully consider that right now, and at every moment of every day, God's love is being poured into your heart. The Holy Spirit is a constant presence, renewing your capacity to live for him.
But demonstrating self-control online is difficult.
One challenge we face is that many internet services want instant, quick, repeated engagement. Teams of psychologists study "user" behavior to identify what colors, designs, and features will hook image bearers into habitual participation. In one study, about 25% of adults reported being "near-constant internet users."
(This is one reason the Uncommon Pursuit community is closed to new comments on the weekends. We want to break the habit of being online all the time).
The good news? A community filled with self-controlled participants will be radically distinctive!
Reflection Questions
- 01
How does self-control enable us to relate to different kinds of people?
- 02
Compare and contrast the ancient athlete with the Christian race through life.
- 03
How will you personally benefit from becoming more self-controlled?
Discussion Question
- 01
Have you ever seen someone be out of control online? What were the consequences? What internal emotions indicate that you need to take a break from a conversation?