Daily Encouragement: Year 1, Day 53
Personal Development: Self-Discipline
Self-discipline may be defined simply as that quality that allows a person to do what needs to be done when he or she doesn’t feel like doing it. Some of self-discipline’s attributes are demonstrated by the “wife of noble character” described in Proverbs 31:10–31. She may be a literal woman, or she may be Wisdom personified. Either way she teaches some important things about self-discipline and leadership. As you read through the following list, think about how you can integrate some of her character traits into your own life.
A person who disciplines his or her character is one who
- is noble and greatly valued (v. 10).
- gets the job done regardless of what it takes, and has the full confidence of others (v. 11).
- works hard enough to make a profit (vv. 11–15).
- delays gratification and pleasure to invest his or her profits and then tirelessly works his or her investments for maximum return (vv. 16–19).
- generously participates in the larger community by sharing his or her profits with the needy (v. 20).
- has no fear of the future (vv. 21–27).
- is honored, respected, admired, praised, and rewarded (vv. 28–31).