UNPACK this...Leading a Disciplined LifeSample

"Self-Inflicted Wounds"

When Jimbo Fisher, head coach of Texas A & M, was once asked if discipline would be a focus of his Aggies following a 24-10 loss to top-ranked Clemson, he gave this response:

“No doubt…in those games, it’s the little things, the discipline, the minute (my-newt) things that keep drives alive or on offense, they kill them. They set you back. They all magnify themselves when you play good teams. You can’t have self-inflicted wounds. You have to play smart football.”

As sports fans, we know one or two plays can change a game and that it often comes down to penalties and a lack of self-discipline.

But “self-inflicted wounds” don’t only lead to an absence of discipline and a lack of emphasis on the little things in football. On the contrary, each day, we must decide to either live a life of wisdom and self-discipline…or in a way that’s unfocused, careless and out of control.

Jesus invites us to follow and obey Him and leads us away from the “self-inflicted” wounds that “set you back.” We can avoid so many “penalties” when we seek Him and take the little things seriously, but we have to “play smart football” and not be foolish.

Thankfully, God gives us His Spirit to empower us to be self-controlled, self-disciplined, and make wise decisions.

We’re reminded of this in 2 Timothy 1:7: “For God did not give us a spirit of timidity or cowardice or fear, but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of sound judgment and personal discipline [abilities that result in a calm, well-balanced mind and self-control].”

During a football game, players will miss tackles, drop passes, and overthrow receivers. In life, we’re going to make mistakes too. But like in football, so many “self-inflicted wounds” are avoidable when we operate with wisdom and self-discipline.

Today, let’s follow Jesus in the way we should go and remember the “One who is wise is cautious and turns away from evil, but a fool is reckless and careless” (Proverbs 14:16).

I’m Bryce Johnson, and you can UNPACK that!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, please teach me to live by the Spirit and follow Jesus, so I avoid unnecessary self-inflicted wounds. Help me honor You by living with obedience, wisdom, and self-discipline. I pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.

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