The Marshmallow Experiment: More Environmental Than We Think
Self-control is not just about desserts, and it's not just about SAT scores, it's about living a life for God as a spiritual strength.
Season 8, Episode 19 · The Marshmallow Experiment - More Environmental Than We Think
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The story behind the idea
The first thing I will tell you, just in case you learn nothing else today, you can say, I learned something today.
What stands out
Self-control is not just about desserts, and it's not just about SAT scores, it's about living a life for God as a spiritual strength. If I went to Galatians 5 and I read for you the fruit of the Spirit, that which comes from the Spirit and that which manifests in spiritual people, what you would find is self-control.
Why it matters
When you took into account all of those things, the long-term predictive power of waiting became much smaller, not zero, but far less dramatic.
A faithful way forward
Surround them with parents who are also consistent and trustworthy. Make sure that they're hearing voices, instruction, and teaching from people who are teaching them about self-discipline.
Put it into practice
If people flourish when they're formed by trustworthy promises, what are the promises of God that help you control yourself? What are the promises of God that cause you to be disciplined now?
Take the idea with you.
- 01What idea from this study most needs my attention right now?
- 02Where does this challenge the way I am currently thinking or living?
- 03What is one faithful step I can take this week?
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