TODAY’S SCRIPTURE 2 Samuel 11–12

Bobby Knight was one of the most successful coaches in college basketball. He not only won three NCAA National Championships with the Indiana Hoosiers, but also coached a pre-Dream Team USA Basketball Olympic Team to a gold medal in 1984. His teams were fundamentally sound, they played with excellence and enthusiasm, and they were known for playing disciplined basketball.

Bobby Knight will be remembered as a great coach who taught disciplined play to all his players, but he will also be remembered as a man who disciplined everyone but himself. Slinging chairs across the floor, having tirades during press conferences, and throwing temper outbursts overshadow his greatness as a coach. He effectively disciplined everyone but himself.

When we think about heroes of the Bible, David comes to mind. He is the boy-warrior who defeats Goliath; the humble servant who refuses to exact revenge on Saul who has tried to take his life; a mighty warrior; and the great king of God’s people. But he is also is remembered for committing adultery with Bathsheba and murdering her husband Uriah.

David as a king could control the fate of those around him; but even though he could control others, he does not control himself. His lack of control does great damage to his family, his influence, and others, whom he killed. One careless moment leads to a lifetime of pain and sorrow. I wonder how long David lived with regret about his lack of self-control.

Today I will…look at my own life and ask God to point out the areas where I am blind to my lack of self-control and give me the strength to take responsibility for my actions.