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IBS 47 - 2 Samuel 11:11-13

2 Samuel 11:11-13
“Uriah said to David, “The ark and Israel and Judah are staying in tents, and my commander Joab and my lord’s men are camped in the open country. How could I go to my house to eat and drink and make love to my wife? As surely as you live, I will not do such a thing!” Then David said to him, “stay here one more day, and tomorrow I will send you back.” So Uriah remained in Jerusalem that day and the next. At David’s invitation, he ate and drank with him, and David made him drunk. But in the evening Uriah went out to sleep on his mat among his master’s servants; he did not go home.”

Uriah, knowing that his army people are sleeping in tents and such, wanted to respect them by not enjoying the things they couldn’t have. That takes great discipline. Especially with him getting drunk, he still slept out on his mat. If I were in his position, I would definitely go and eat. Having that respect for his people is praiseworthy. This man knew both self discipline and respect. 
I get so upset with myself when my self discipline is lacking. When I know I don’t need that delicious shake, but I cave in and buy it anyways. When I know I don’t need to buy more makeup or whatever it may be. I always go back to that verse: the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak. I’ve been experiencing this so much recently. I don’t want to and I know I shouldn’t, but I do it anyways and then I regret it. That self discipline is something I keep seeking and should start praying for. 
Once that self discipline is achieved, only with Christ though, then you can stand bold and confident. Knowing that the decisions you make are right. When I’m more self disciplined I feel accomplished and good. I’m proud of myself and am thankful. This is another area where I’ve learned I’m weak and have to rely on God. Only He can help me achieve self discipline. Only He can strengthen me and carry me. That’s why I become thankful because I know He helped. 


Application: I’ll draw a dollar sign crossed out as a reminder to not cave in. To stand strong and to continually ask God to strengthen me to be self disciplined. 

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