The Bible And The Self

American culture is wrapped up in the “self.’

There’s Self magazine.

A few years ago, many of us believed that infusing teenagers with self-esteem would solve their problems — or prevent problems from arising in the first place.

Even today, we focus in on self-respect and self-care.

Yet the bible seems remarkably free of such concerns.

Instead, listen to what Paul tells Titus:

Teach the older men to be temperate, worthy of respect, self-controlled, and sound in faith, in love and in endurance. (Titus 2:2)

Similarly, encourage the young men to be self-controlled. (Titus 2:6)

For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say ‘no’ to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in the present age. (Titus 2:11-12)

Not self-care, self-esteem, or even self-respect. Self control.

What kind of difference would that make in our society?

What kind of difference would that make in your life? In mine?

If this becomes a series . . . you heard it here first.