Act like you've been there

I am a firm believer in self-control in all aspects of life. I will admit there are those times when I probably don't display it as well as I could, or should but I work hard at it. I believe that self-control is a very strong thing for someone to possess and they are to be commended for it.
Self control comes in all different forms.
Titus 2:12 says, We should live in this evil world with self-control, right conduct and devotion to God.
This verse tells us several things. FIrst we live in an evil world full of a lack of self control. Watch a football game, watch any sports event and watch players score or do something to help their team but take the credit for themselves. We are living in the world of me. It's all about me, what I want, and what I need from life.
Right conduct is obviously a major part of self-control. If we don't live with self-control we will get involved in anything that comes our way. It is important that we live with right conduct and set ourselves up to stay away from the desires of this world. Again, these passing pleasures are always about me.
Finally he tells Titus to have devotion to God. If we walk around with an attitude that everything we do is for God, and builds on our devotion to him then what can we do but get rid of our selfishness. The moment we start living our lives for God, we stop worrying about me, about things that make me happy, or bring me glory. A true servant of God takes no credit for what he or she accomplishes but understands it is for God, and led by God.
I believe we need self-control in the good and in the bad times. When you win at something you are happy, but you simply understand that God is not impressed and that we shouldn't be either. When a touchdown is scored the ball should be handed to teh referee and that is it. No dance, no celebration, no party. Same goes with bad situations, we need to show self-control when bad things are happening to us understanding that rough times and trials are what God uses to groom us. WE should be happy that rough times come because it tells us God is still preparing us for bigger and better things.
So practice self-control and devotion to God.
Thanks for reading and have a great day!