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The Kingship of Self-Control: Individual Problems and Possibilities
"Man has two creators, his God and himself. His first creator furnishes him the raw material of his life and can make that life what he will. His second creator, himself, has marvelous powers he rarely realizes. It is what a man makes of himself that counts."
So begins "The Kingship of Self-Control," William George Jordan's powerful work on our ability to exercise our God-given control over ourselves and our destinies.
This short but powerful read provides great insight into the nature of our minds, the possibilities we hold within us, and our ability to grow and develop far beyond where we are. William George Jordan's writings are a diamond in the rough, forgotten by many but well deserving of attention by all.
So begins "The Kingship of Self-Control," William George Jordan's powerful work on our ability to exercise our God-given control over ourselves and our destinies.
This short but powerful read provides great insight into the nature of our minds, the possibilities we hold within us, and our ability to grow and develop far beyond where we are. William George Jordan's writings are a diamond in the rough, forgotten by many but well deserving of attention by all.
64 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 1898
23 people are currently reading
148 people want to read
About the author
William George Jordan
159 books36 followersEditor of Book Chat magazine 1886-87 and The Saturday Evening Post 1898-99.
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
October 26, 2020
I am a student of personal and professional development. And I know that many who are reading these words are too, or you would be reading something else, or nothing at all.
As a student of anything, people tend to seek out the classics in that area; for personal and professional development, the list would be long. If you are young, you might think The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. If you are older it might be the works of Og Mandino or Dr. Norman Vincent Peale. If you have been around even longer, or done your homework, you might think of Dale Carnegie. And if you go back further yet you might recognize the name of the founder of Success Magazine, Orison Swett Marden.
It will take a serious student to find the works of William George Jordan, a turn of the 20th century contemporary of Marden.
Originally published in 1898, The Kingship of Self-Control is a forefather of many of the personal development books that followed, and for that reason alone it is worth reading. But far more importantly, the development of self-control is critical to us reaching our full potential, and this 64 pages provides the most original thinking on the subject I have ever read.
The book reads like it was written over 100 years ago, and so it might include some language that is hard to follow and examples that seem outdated. I can assure you that just because there isn’t an app or a reference to current events, it is 100% applicable to your life and your personal and professional development. The essays that make up the chapters talk about topics including:
Our choices in conversation
The role duty plays in our life
“Worry, the Great American Disease”
The value of simplicity
Thoughts on regret
And more.
64 pages.
And if you have a Kindle or a Kindle app for your device, it’s just $.99
This is an absolute no-brainer.
I am adding this book to my read-each-year list.
Read more at: https://blog.kevineikenberry.com/pers...
As a student of anything, people tend to seek out the classics in that area; for personal and professional development, the list would be long. If you are young, you might think The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. If you are older it might be the works of Og Mandino or Dr. Norman Vincent Peale. If you have been around even longer, or done your homework, you might think of Dale Carnegie. And if you go back further yet you might recognize the name of the founder of Success Magazine, Orison Swett Marden.
It will take a serious student to find the works of William George Jordan, a turn of the 20th century contemporary of Marden.
Originally published in 1898, The Kingship of Self-Control is a forefather of many of the personal development books that followed, and for that reason alone it is worth reading. But far more importantly, the development of self-control is critical to us reaching our full potential, and this 64 pages provides the most original thinking on the subject I have ever read.
The book reads like it was written over 100 years ago, and so it might include some language that is hard to follow and examples that seem outdated. I can assure you that just because there isn’t an app or a reference to current events, it is 100% applicable to your life and your personal and professional development. The essays that make up the chapters talk about topics including:
Our choices in conversation
The role duty plays in our life
“Worry, the Great American Disease”
The value of simplicity
Thoughts on regret
And more.
64 pages.
And if you have a Kindle or a Kindle app for your device, it’s just $.99
This is an absolute no-brainer.
I am adding this book to my read-each-year list.
Read more at: https://blog.kevineikenberry.com/pers...
July 12, 2018
I particularly loved that section regarding "syndicating our sorrows." Whenever we share our sorrows to people who aren't close to us, or aren't our friends, we're making their lives miserable in the bid for company. The strong person with self-control reins in this tendency to complain, and fights to live every single day, in spite of its difficulty and challenges.
It's something I also try to aspire to, but something I habitually fail at. Reminders are very welcome, however.
It's something I also try to aspire to, but something I habitually fail at. Reminders are very welcome, however.
September 17, 2011
Like all of his books this is filled with great insight into human nature, inspiring and uplifting thoughts. A great pick-me-up. Each chapter is a short essay on the topic identified in the title.
September 6, 2024
"The Kingship of Self-Control" is a classic text that delves deep into the concept of self-mastery and the power of self-discipline. The book, filled with wisdom and insight, encourages readers to recognise their own potential for greatness by exercising control over their impulses, thoughts, and actions. It advocates for the development of self-control as the key to achieving true personal freedom and fulfilment.
Key Themes and Insights
Self-Creation and Responsibility: The author suggests that while humans are created with certain innate characteristics and circumstances, they hold immense power to shape their destiny. A recurring message is that success or failure is often a matter of self-determination. As highlighted, "Man in his weakness is the creature of circumstances; man in his strength is the creator of circumstances." This reflects the idea that individuals can choose to be either victims or victors, largely depending on their approach to life.
Moral Strength and Self-Control: One of the most compelling arguments is that self-control differentiates humans from other animals. It is a moral struggle that every person must undertake to achieve mastery over themselves. The text portrays self-control as a gradual process, akin to strengthening a muscle, requiring consistent effort over time. The author uses vivid metaphors to illustrate this point, such as "Nature never accepts a cash payment in full for anything," emphasising that personal growth is a continuous, step-by-step journey.
The Dangers of Worry and Negativity: The book warns against the corrosive effects of worry, labelling it "the most popular form of suicide." Worry is depicted as a destructive force that saps energy and health, while a focus on constructive action ("work is mental food") is presented as a remedy. This perspective underscores the importance of maintaining a positive and proactive mindset.
Simplicity and Focus: Another powerful theme is the idea of simplicity, described as "the elimination of the non-essential in all things." The author argues that simplicity allows for greater focus, strength, and clarity, and reduces life's complexities to its core essentials. By cutting away the non-essential, one can concentrate their energy more effectively on what truly matters.
Personal Responsibility and Solitude: The text suggests that every individual must confront their challenges alone, embracing solitude as a means of personal growth. It speaks to the inherent loneliness of the human condition and the importance of taking full responsibility for one’s life. This theme is reinforced by references to spiritual and philosophical figures who found strength in solitude.
The Power and Perils of the Tongue: One of the more surprising sections focuses on the destructive power of words. The author equates harmful speech with physical weapons, stating that "The first is the human tongue," and lists the various "crimes of the tongue," such as gossip, lying, and harsh criticism. This insight encourages readers to be mindful of their speech and to recognise its potential impact on others.
Personal Reflection
Your highlights suggest a deep appreciation for the text's messages on self-improvement and the importance of personal responsibility. The author’s emphasis on the continuous process of self-control, the rejection of worry, and the pursuit of simplicity seem to have resonated strongly with you. The book’s exploration of the human condition and the call to live a life of moral strength and self-discipline make it a timeless piece, relevant to any reader seeking to improve themselves and their approach to life.
Final Thoughts
"The Kingship of Self-Control" is a profound and thought-provoking read that challenges its audience to take control of their lives through self-discipline, moral clarity, and purposeful action. It offers timeless wisdom on the path to personal growth and mastery, making it an inspiring choice for anyone committed to self-improvement. The text’s reflections on the complexities of the human experience, combined with its emphasis on personal agency, provide a powerful guide for those seeking to live a more deliberate and meaningful life.
Key Themes and Insights
Self-Creation and Responsibility: The author suggests that while humans are created with certain innate characteristics and circumstances, they hold immense power to shape their destiny. A recurring message is that success or failure is often a matter of self-determination. As highlighted, "Man in his weakness is the creature of circumstances; man in his strength is the creator of circumstances." This reflects the idea that individuals can choose to be either victims or victors, largely depending on their approach to life.
Moral Strength and Self-Control: One of the most compelling arguments is that self-control differentiates humans from other animals. It is a moral struggle that every person must undertake to achieve mastery over themselves. The text portrays self-control as a gradual process, akin to strengthening a muscle, requiring consistent effort over time. The author uses vivid metaphors to illustrate this point, such as "Nature never accepts a cash payment in full for anything," emphasising that personal growth is a continuous, step-by-step journey.
The Dangers of Worry and Negativity: The book warns against the corrosive effects of worry, labelling it "the most popular form of suicide." Worry is depicted as a destructive force that saps energy and health, while a focus on constructive action ("work is mental food") is presented as a remedy. This perspective underscores the importance of maintaining a positive and proactive mindset.
Simplicity and Focus: Another powerful theme is the idea of simplicity, described as "the elimination of the non-essential in all things." The author argues that simplicity allows for greater focus, strength, and clarity, and reduces life's complexities to its core essentials. By cutting away the non-essential, one can concentrate their energy more effectively on what truly matters.
Personal Responsibility and Solitude: The text suggests that every individual must confront their challenges alone, embracing solitude as a means of personal growth. It speaks to the inherent loneliness of the human condition and the importance of taking full responsibility for one’s life. This theme is reinforced by references to spiritual and philosophical figures who found strength in solitude.
The Power and Perils of the Tongue: One of the more surprising sections focuses on the destructive power of words. The author equates harmful speech with physical weapons, stating that "The first is the human tongue," and lists the various "crimes of the tongue," such as gossip, lying, and harsh criticism. This insight encourages readers to be mindful of their speech and to recognise its potential impact on others.
Personal Reflection
Your highlights suggest a deep appreciation for the text's messages on self-improvement and the importance of personal responsibility. The author’s emphasis on the continuous process of self-control, the rejection of worry, and the pursuit of simplicity seem to have resonated strongly with you. The book’s exploration of the human condition and the call to live a life of moral strength and self-discipline make it a timeless piece, relevant to any reader seeking to improve themselves and their approach to life.
Final Thoughts
"The Kingship of Self-Control" is a profound and thought-provoking read that challenges its audience to take control of their lives through self-discipline, moral clarity, and purposeful action. It offers timeless wisdom on the path to personal growth and mastery, making it an inspiring choice for anyone committed to self-improvement. The text’s reflections on the complexities of the human experience, combined with its emphasis on personal agency, provide a powerful guide for those seeking to live a more deliberate and meaningful life.
Read
November 23, 2022Overall, it is too Pelagian, which is a serious error. Man is not his own master, and to say things like “Any man may attain self-control if he only will” is to neglect that self-control is a fruit of the Spirit. Like all fruits, it must be cultivated and proper conditions should be provided for, but it is spiritually dangerous to say that we achieve self-control of our own volition. That is the way to pride. Self-control is a gift, not a product.
He also seems to put too much emphasis on man’s own choice to do good. We are to choose between slavery and kingship, but the decision doesn’t rest wholly with us. In fact, it is impossible to truly choose freedom without the grace of God regenerating us first. We are dependent, not on our own will, but on God to make the first action.
However, I think it is a book which is easy to steel-man. His basic idea, that you are either king or slave is thoroughly scriptural and is the basic teaching of the book of Proverbs. Proverbs is written as a father’s advice to his son, but the father is a king, and he is writing to warn his son against slavery and to become the king he should be. Don’t be slothful – that is slavery to laziness. Don’t get in debt – that is slavery to a person. Don’t be ruled by your anger – you either rule it or are ruled by it.
He has some excellent things to say such as “Self-control may be developed in precisely the same manner as we tone up a weak muscle,—by little exercises day by day. Let us each day do, as mere exercises of discipline in moral gymnastics, a few acts that are disagreeable to us, the doing of which will help us in instant action in our hour of need.” And “The individual can attain self-control in great things only through self-control in little things. He must study himself to discover what is the weak point in his armor, what is the element within him that ever keeps him from his fullest success. This is the characteristic upon which he should begin his exercise in self-control.”
He also seems to put too much emphasis on man’s own choice to do good. We are to choose between slavery and kingship, but the decision doesn’t rest wholly with us. In fact, it is impossible to truly choose freedom without the grace of God regenerating us first. We are dependent, not on our own will, but on God to make the first action.
However, I think it is a book which is easy to steel-man. His basic idea, that you are either king or slave is thoroughly scriptural and is the basic teaching of the book of Proverbs. Proverbs is written as a father’s advice to his son, but the father is a king, and he is writing to warn his son against slavery and to become the king he should be. Don’t be slothful – that is slavery to laziness. Don’t get in debt – that is slavery to a person. Don’t be ruled by your anger – you either rule it or are ruled by it.
He has some excellent things to say such as “Self-control may be developed in precisely the same manner as we tone up a weak muscle,—by little exercises day by day. Let us each day do, as mere exercises of discipline in moral gymnastics, a few acts that are disagreeable to us, the doing of which will help us in instant action in our hour of need.” And “The individual can attain self-control in great things only through self-control in little things. He must study himself to discover what is the weak point in his armor, what is the element within him that ever keeps him from his fullest success. This is the characteristic upon which he should begin his exercise in self-control.”
November 22, 2021
This book has a continually relevant outlook on life, and gives great insight on how to live a "successful" life. As a young person, this inspiring book gives me wisdom I would otherwise have to gain from years of experience, allowing me to learn and live a better life earlier than those before me.
April 25, 2023
great book
Explains deep universal truths why there are different races & how nature meets all challenges. Short great read, worth the time
Explains deep universal truths why there are different races & how nature meets all challenges. Short great read, worth the time
September 3, 2012
I was really excited to read this, but unfortunately, the first chapter is the best part of the book. I also enjoyed the chapter on simplicity, but the rest of the book was just average.
November 20, 2014
Buku tipis yang isinya 'penting semua'. A must read.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews