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For many of us, we may be successful and have strong self-esteem…but we need to recognize that we aren’t often as good as we think we are! The first and most important application of self-discipline is to accept rebuke (as noted in Proverbs 13:1 above). Until we own the fact that we are not as good as we think we are, we will not apply the self-discipline and self-control required to heed instruction. I blogged about my own experience with “blind spots” (refer to the “Supervisor of Supervisors” section in my post – Brady’s 20 Years of Double-Loop Learning)
Now, let’s see what we can learn from Paul’s mentoring of Timothy and the Proverbs 31 woman.
Paul’s Mentoring of Timothy
Paul also encouraged self-control in those he mentored. In his second letter to Timothy—written after Paul commissioned Timothy to oversee many of the churches in the Roman province of Asia—Paul noted that this task required “power, love, and self-control.” Self-control is needed to stretch us beyond our comfort zones. For some, control is needed in the realm of emotions; for others the focus of self-control will be in the realm of the mind or the will.
Self-control is seldom easy. Paul’s words to Timothy reveal that this young man probably struggled with it in his ministry. But we should be encouraged by Paul’s words…God’s spirit is the power source behind self-control. Timothy evidently found that out, and so can we.
Proverbs 31 Woman
Much of leadership success comes about by simply doing what no one else is willing to do: toughing it out, risking an opinion, making a decision when everyone else is paralyzed by uncertainty. Self-discipline may be defined as the quality that allows a person to do what needs to be done even when they don’t feel like doing it. The “wife of noble character” found in Proverbs 31 teaches us some important things about discipline and leadership. She:
- Gets the job done regardless of what it takes and has the full confidence of others (v. 11)
- Works hard enough to make a profit (v. 11-15)
- Delays gratification and pleasure to invest profits then tirelessly works their investments to maximum return (v. 16-19)
- Generously participates in the larger community by sharing profits with the needy (v. 20)
- Has no fear of the future (v. 21-27)
- Is honored, respected, admired, praised, and rewarded (v. 28-31)
Composure, presence of mind, cool headedness, patience, self-possession, restraint—only a few people display these qualities, and those who do usually make effective leaders. People who demonstrate the fruit of self-control are productive, dependable, and influential.
Leader, may you emulate these qualities, as you shoot for the stars!