The need to use self control comes at inconvenient times. They come at times when I am not listening for direction, or don’t particularly want to seek direction. For example, last night I stayed up late because a) I am used to staying up late and because b) I wanted to do a crossword puzzle. I did not even think to seek for God’s advice much less dedicating the time to God. I was busy with the activity I wanted to do.
There seems to be two easy ways to slip off the path of self control. One is pursuing a path you are "used to": an established routine, something familiar, a habitual activity. Another is doing something you "want to do": something easy you enjoy and it feels good at the time.
But what I’m used to and what I like to do (crosswords, for example) may not be what at that particular time is the most profitable for me. More profitable things might be: memorizing Scripture, reading a book, or practicing drums or another musical instrument. For the long picture literature and music are more noble things than the number of crosswords I complete or the TV programs I watch.
Maybe I should recognize these "used to it" "want to do" times. Recognize that they exist, that they will appear at inconvenient times, and make plans to resist them.
