Self-Control

Day 1- God Gives Self-Control

  • Pray.
  • Review the memory verse.
  • Ask, “What is self-control?”
  • Discuss with your children examples of when we need to rely on the Holy Spirit to produce in us self-control. How could we respond in these scenarios? Have them tell you about the self-controlled response and the non-self-controlled response.
    • sibling takes something of yours without asking
    • someone does or says something hateful to you
    • you lose a game and are upset about it
    • time to clean up but you don’t want to
    • time to turn off TV or game or tablet
    • you want something you aren’t supposed to have
    • getting school/homework done
    • completing your chores
  • Read Proverbs 25:28.
  • Ask, “How does a person who lacks self-control compare to a city that has been broken into and is without walls?”
  • Read 2 Timothy 1:7. If your Bible uses the words ‘discipline’ or ‘sound mind’, point out that those are similar self-control.
  • Ask, “What does not come from God (fear)?”
  • Ask, “What does God give us (power, love, discipline/sound mind/self-control)? How does it make feel knowing that God offers you such good things?”
  • When we allow God to rule our lives, and when we focus on the things that God has given us, we are able to live self-controlled, confident, disciplined lives. When we allow fear, hatred, or momentary pleasures to rule our lives, things are more chaotic, confusing, and disappointing.
  • Activity:

Day 2-Fruit of the Spirit Wrap Up

  • Pray.
  • Review the memory verse. Have each person say it by him/herself.
  • Read John 15:5.
  • Ask, “Who is speaking these words (Jesus)? To what does Jesus compare Himself? To what does Jesus compare us? What type of fruit do you think Jesus is talking about? How do we get this fruit?
  • Read John 15:8.
  • When we abide in Jesus, He will produce in us the fruits of the Spirit and that brings attention/glory to God. Other people see the love, joy, peace, patience, etc. that can only come from God. That’s what we want-for God to be on display in our lives!
  • Read John 15:10.
  • Ask, “How do we abide in Him? What are some of His commandments?”
  • Read John 15:11 and discuss the joy that Jesus wants to give us.
  • Wrap it up:
    • What did you learn from studying the fruits of the Spirit?
    • What is one fruit that comes to you more easily?
    • What is one fruit that is a little harder for you to have?
    • How did God speak to you through His Word?
    • What are you going to do differently after hearing what God’s Word says?
    • How have you seen God help you during our month studying the fruit of the Spirit?
  • Activity: