31 Values to Pray for Your KidsSample

Self-Discipline

Self-discipline is a fantastic gift we can pass on to our children. It is a commitment to pursue what is right and good, even in the face of temptation. Self-discipline is a guiding principle for wise and purposeful living in a world filled with indulgence.

In Proverbs 1:3, Solomon writes that one of the purposes of the Proverbs is to give prudence to the young's straightforwardness, knowledge, and discretion. This highlights the importance of teaching our children the value of self-discipline from a young age, equipping them with the wisdom and discernment to make wise choices in life.

1 Corinthians 9:24-27 compares the Christian life to a race, urging believers to exercise self-discipline like athletes training for a competition. Paul emphasizes the importance of temperance and self-control in every area of life. As we instill this mindset in our children, we empower them to run their race with endurance, knowing that the ultimate prize is the crown of life that awaits those who finish well.

In Matthew 4:1-11, we witness Jesus' temptation in the wilderness, where He demonstrates incredible self-discipline in resisting temptation. Despite being hungry and weary from fasting, Jesus remains steadfast in His commitment to do the will of His Father. His example inspires us and our children, reminding us that through prayer, fasting, and reliance on God's Word, we can overcome the temptations that seek to derail us from righteousness.

Pray:

Father, in Jesus’ name, we come before you with hearts full of gratitude for the gift of self-discipline and the strength you provide to resist temptation. We pray for our children that you would instill a spirit of self-discipline and a steadfast commitment to pursue what is right and good in every area of life.

Grant them the wisdom and discernment to make wise choices even in the face of challenges and temptations. May they run their race with endurance, knowing that the ultimate prize is the crown of life that awaits those who finish well.

Help them exercise self-discipline in everything, like athletes training for a competition and tempering their desires and impulses with the wisdom of your Word. May they follow the example of Jesus, who resisted temptation in the wilderness through prayer, fasting, and reliance on your Word. We pray in the mighty and powerful name of Jesus, amen.