Self-Control..

Self-control is not something we hear outside of the Christian circle. We live in a #selfie culture that prods us to be indulgent and to fulfill our every whim and fancy while we celebrate ourselves. The only time self-control is popular is with regard to dieting and exercise to have a great physical image. Is this the kind of self-control that God wants us to exercise? Yes, maybe as God does not want to be gluttons who do not look after our physical being. However, the message of self-control in the Bible is more than that - it is to say 'Yes' to God and 'No' to anything that hinders us from walking closely with God.

When viewed by the world, self-control, especially when linked with self-denial and self-sacrifice seems to be essentially negative. However, when confronted with a true understanding of what human nature produces, we can see that the fruits of self-control are entirely positive. Lack of self-control is destructive as a person without self-control has no rule over themselves and is defenceless and is controlled by externals.
Proverbs 25:28
Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control.
The greek word for self-control includes the notions of having good sense, sober wisdom, moderation, and soundness of mind in addition to controlling our passions and apetites. Paul urges us to lay aside every 'weight' that hinders us from running the race that God has set for us. Self-control includes even throwing off 'weights' from our lives that are time and mind consuming, not necessarily sin by themselves but that which prevents us from running light and with vigour the full length and course that God has called us to.
Hebrews 12:1 (NKJV)
Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.
Self control is absolutely essential if we are achieve our potential.

Self-control is listed as one of the fruits of the Spirit. Self-control is not produced by our will and determination alone but it is achieved by obeying and living in co-operation with the Holy Spirit.
Galatians 5:22-25
..the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.
The Holy Spirit has been given to us so that we can live as over-comers and God pleasers, sober and sensible, not as people who are defeated and controlled by externals and living with blind passion and governed by the flesh. With the help of the Holy Spirit, we can fan into flame this gift!
2 Timothy 1:6-7
For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.

What are the areas in your life where you think you could do with more self-control and discipline? Bring them to the Lord in prayer and rely and co-operate with the Holy Spirit to help you overcome these and live a life of discipline. Remember that a life of self control is saying 'Yes' to God and will help you live to the highest calling and purpose that God has for you. Why settle for less when God wants the best for you?