”The only bad workout is the one that didn’t happen.” Meme

Self-control often expresses itself in things we do, as much as in things we don’t do. It takes a measure of self-control to establish positive habits like walking, or working out every day. We must often drag a lazy body kicking and screaming behind us in order to do what we know is good. This is no less true of any inner disciplines. The work of prayer for others, or setting aside time to nurture our soul on God’s word will require a good measure of self-control.

“The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak.” Jesus “Conversations Within” ts 5/3/2018

”If you learn self-control you can master anything.” Unknown

Moderation is the practice of moderating oneself  directing one’s desires to insure they do not control the direction of our lives. Moderation is self-control and self-control is moderation. The next time we have a craving for something practice moderating it in one way or another. Say, “No,” or “not now,” or “not at all,” or “just one bite” and stick to it. The only way to be the master is to practice mastering.

“Every athlete exercises self-control in all things.” 1Cor.9.25 “Conversations Within” ts 5/2/2018

”Throw moderation to the winds, and the greatest pleasures bring the greatest pains.” Democritus

Temperance is not an enemy, but a friend to pleasure. Temperance does not despise pleasure it delights in it as a precious gift and does what is needed to insure it is not ruined by overindulgence. Remember listening to that favorite song as a teen over and over until you got sick of it. If you enjoy something, protect it with moderation. Let your love of life guide your enjoyment of pleasure and pleasure will always bring you pleasure.

“Eat just enough honey, too much of it will make you sick.” Prov.25 “Conversations Within” ts 5/1/2018

Live humbly, simply, modestly.

Moderation has many wonderful fruits. The power to say “No” to yourself is a potent way to say “Yes” to your happiness and health. Just learn to say “No”--no to just one more. Sharpen a vision of God’s very best for your life and run toward it one choice at a time. If you wonder what that is, just ask. He delights in giving grace to the humble. 

“For the grace of God...teaches us to say "No" …” Titus 2.12 “Conversations Within” ts 4/30/2018

“In moderating, not in satisfying desires, lies peace.” Reginald Heber

Who wants to be a slave of desire? I would rather be my master rather than my slave. Happiness seems so much more than satisfying mere physical pleasure. There are inner joys to be had. I resonate with Lewis who wrote, "I sometimes wonder whether all pleasures are not substitutes for joy." I would add that pleasure is a cheap substitute if we trade our joy and peace for it.

“The fruit of the Spirit is... self-control.” Gal.5.22 “Conversations Within” ts 4/29/2018