Self-Control

Self-Control
     Why is self-control so difficult? Let's admit it, it's not only difficult for our children but it is difficult for us also! But God tells us in 1 Peter 1:13 to be self- controlled. If He tells us this, there must be a way. After all with God all things are possible. Luke 1:37 "For nothing is impossible with God."
God knew this would be difficult so He gave us a special gift to aid us, the Holy Spirit. Included in this gift is self-control. Galatians 5:22 "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law."
     Therefore when we or our children are struggling with self-control our first action must be prayer. Ask God to help us and our child to display self-control. Then as a very practical and effective action we use what we refer to as "cross cross zip". This means your child folds their hands on their lap, cross their ankles and makes no sounds (zip their lips!). Start by teaching your child during a time of non conflict what cross cross zip means. You can start this with very young toddlers and continue to use it for as long as needed! Practice this! Let your child know this will be a direction you will use to help them gain self- control. Then the next time you see your child losing control, just gently tell them to cross cross zip. Be patient during the learning process. This is very effective because it can be used in most any place at most any time ie. back seat of the car, church, shopping cart, doctors office etc.... Use this consistently and you will find your child beginning to beautifully display the fruit of the Spirit, self- control.

Be Blessed~ Cheryl