Week 9: Self-Control

Day 1
   Verse: Titus 2:6-8
   Reflection: It is important to be in control of what we are doing. We are in control of whether or not we do the right thing. Sometimes our parents give us directions that are hard to follow, because we'd rather do something else. It can be hard to control ourselves and listen, but it is the right thing to do. 
   Fruit: What directions do you have trouble following?

 Day 2
   Verse: Titus 2:6-8
   Reflection: What makes you angry? Sometimes we feel so angry we want to throw something. Or maybe we want to hit or kick something. God wants us to control our anger and talk about why we're angry instead of acting out in anger. When we act out in anger we could hurt something or someone.
   Fruit: Write the number '10' Next time you are angry, try counting to 10. This can help you calm down before you act in anger.

Day 3
   Verse: Titus 2:6-8
   Reflection: When we're mad at someone, sometimes we want to say mean things to them or yell at them. But God challenges us to control our anger and our tongues. When we blurt out hateful words, often we regret saying them. Instead we should wait, calm down and think about what we're about to say.
   Fruit: Think of something hateful you said recently. Write it on your fruit and put a big 'X' through it to remind you not to speak out in anger.

Day 4
   Verse: 1 Peter 4:7
   Reflection: We can practice self-control in church. The Mass is one big prayer to God. How should you act when you are in church? These things are hard to do, sometimes we want to play and talk instead of sit and be quiet. But by doing this, we show God reverence. Reverence means showing God we respect Him greatly and know how awesome He is!
   Fruit: What can you do in church to show reverence to God?

Day 5
   Verse: Sirach 37:29
   Reflection: Food is good for us. It nourishes our bodies, keeps us healthy and strong. But sometimes we eat too much food. This isn't good for our bodies and can make us sick. We need to be careful to only eat until we're full, then stop eating.
   Fruit: What's your favorite food?

Day 6
   Verse: Ecclesiastes 3:1, 3
   Reflection: What is your favorite thing to do? It is good for us to enjoy the life God gave us. He wants us to play and have fun, but not all the time. Sometimes we have to stop playing to eat, get dressed, clean up, rest. We need food and rest to keep us healthy and strong. We also should take care of ourselves and do things for our parents when they need our help. Next time your mom or dad asks you to stop playing and do work, don't complain, remember there will be more time to play later! 
   Fruit: What is your favorite way to play?

Day 7
   Verse: Ecclesiastes 3:1, 3
   Reflection: When you play, there are some toys you like to play with more than others. But sometimes a friend is playing with the toy you want. Instead of taking the toy away from them, you can ask nicely if you can have a turn when they're finished. Also, instead of playing with our favorite toys all the time, we should give others a chance to play with them too.
   Fruit: What's your favorite toy? Next time a friend is over, try letting them play with that toy.