Day 5: Gentleness and Self-Control

Ready:

"Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon.” – Philippians 4:5 NLT

Set: 

Gentleness

A disruptive and frenzied spirit can stir up the waters in a group, setting many on edge and prone to panic. But a gentle spirit turns away anger and suspicion and brings a calmness to stop confusion. When we’re presented a situation where we are tempted to raise the anxiety level, let’s look to Jesus’ example. He had a gentleness about Him that drew people from every walk of life. He let the little children come to Him, He dined with those deemed unacceptable to society, and He met a religious leader in the middle of the night whose curiosity got the best of him. Because Jesus kept in perfect step with His Father, His heart remained open to welcome those intrigued by His tranquil demeanor. 

Is your team faced with a seemingly impossible match-up with the mammoth team of the conference? Tell them how you believe in the group and believe all things are possible. Your easygoing manner and confidence in God’s presence on the court may be just what your teammates need.

Self-Control

A lack of self-control can be a quick fume that flares up when we aren’t expecting it: a huff of anger at what we feel is an unfair umpire call, a push back on the hockey rink that’s just a bit extra at an opponent hip checking on the ice, or an outburst at your team for somehow letting the lead shrink in the span of a few minutes. When emotions rise, it’s hard to remember to control ourselves.

How can we handle anger, resentment, and other feelings in the heat of the moment? By stopping to remember how Jesus kept His cool in emotionally charged situations. He clung to the Father, spoke His Word, and tuned His spirit to listen for God’s voice. From this rooted point, Jesus was able to maintain an eternal perspective and be a voice of reason. 

Stay grounded in God’s Word and lean into the guidance of the Holy Spirit. When that referee call comes, give grace to the moment and get ready for the next play. You never know whose watchful eye will see your reaction and want to know the why behind it.

Go:

1. How can you have gentleness while being a fierce competitor? 

2. In what areas can you ask God to help you with more self-control?

3. Start praying for your teammates to experience the grace of God today.

Workout:

Proverbs 15:1; Ephesians 4:2; 2 Timothy 1:7

Overtime:

"I am quick to get angry, to speak out of line, and act in ways I don’t want to. But You are so patient with me and still love me. I want a heart that is more like Jesus’ and ask that You bring situations to my life where I am challenged to depend on You alone. You are always enough. Amen.”