Self-Control

But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. (Galatians 5:16-24 ESV).

The Apostle Paul is very direct with his admonition to the Galatians in our reading today. Some might even say this was his basic character and approach with everyone. I have often been accused of being like “a bull in a china shop.” There have been many times I have thought that a little subtlety would have been better received, though it may not have been nearly as easily understood. Paul wants to make sure his readers have no ambiguity about the fruit of the Spirit. He is concise and clear. These are the things that lead to successful living. One of those things is self-control. Controlling our emotions, desires, passions, or our tongue is essential to develop. Self-control is about self-discipline. The Bible compares it to sports. It says, “Run your race to win. Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things.” It does take practice and perseverance. So, let me suggest a few ways to perfect you self-control: First, clarify your purpose. We should always understand what we are trying to accomplish. What’s the end goal? Is it to lose a few pounds? Then your decisions will be shaped by that purpose. Second, be honest with yourself about where you lack self-control. Alcoholics who find victory over their addiction know the first step is admitting their inability to control the problem. It begins with a searching and honest self-evaluation. Third, ask God for self-discipline. No one, no matter how strong their personal resolve can control their inner resolve without the help of the Holy Spirit. Fourth, take action on that discipline, one day at a time. Start taking steps, even small ones, toward the goal. You cannot reach the finish line if you don’t start. Without being too direct, may I say today is a good day to begin your journey?