The apostle Paul wrote to the church of Galatia and said, "The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law." The message of Galatians 5:22-23 still resounds today. If we are born of the Spirit (John 3:5, Acts 2:38, Romans 8) it is natural for us to bear the fruit of the Spirit. What does that mean? In this space today, I would like for us to consider "SELF-CONTROL" as a fruit of the Spirit.
The Bible has a lot to say about SELF-CONTROL. In fact, since Paul mentions SELF-CONTROL let's see what he says about it.
*Husbands & Wives Should Practice SELF-CONTROL (I Corinthians 7:5)
Because if you don't Satan will destroy your intimacy.
*Single Christians Should Practice SELF-CONTROL (I Corinthians 7:9)
Because if you don't you will burn with passion that leads you to lust and sin.
*Athletes Should Practice SELF-CONTROL (I Corinthians 9:25)
Because if you don't you won't receive the prize.
*Young Women Should Practice SELF-CONTROL (I Timothy 2:9)
Because if you don't you will not be adorned with the things that matter to God.
*Preachers Should Practice SELF-CONTROL (I Timothy 4:12)
Because if you don't you will not be the example God desires you to be.
*Elders Should Practice SELF-CONTROL (Titus 1:8)
Because if you don't you will not be able to lead the Lord's kingdom.
*Older Women Should Practice SELF-CONTROL (Titus 2:1)
Because if you don't younger women will never learn it.
* Older Men Should Practice SELF-CONTROL (Titus 2:2)
Because if you don't younger men will never accept it.
*Young Men Should Practice SELF-CONTROL (Titus 2:6)
Because if you don't you will never gain the respect of others.
Wow! That's a list. Did he leave anyone out? I heard a great illustration once that said ego stands for: E – Edging G –God O – Out. That is the anti-thesis of Christianity. Paul also said in II Timothy 1:6-7: " This is why I remind you to keep using the gift God gave you when I laid my hands on you. Now let it grow, as a small flame grows into a fire. God did not give us a spirit that makes us afraid but a spirit of power and love and SELF-CONTROL." (NCV) God gives us His Holy Spirit to stop our reckless behavior. Isn't it time we surrendered to Him?
Our Lord is not a God of confusion or lack of control. He is temperate. He expects His children to do their best to practice SELF-CONTROL. May God bless you and keep you! Choose SELF-CONTROL.
You are loved.
Dr. Ray Reynolds