HH, Sir Godfrey Gregg D.Div
Self-Control
“Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.” Proverbs 25:28
The last characteristic in Paul’s description of the fruit of the Spirit points us back to his list of the “works of the flesh” in Galatians 5:19-21. Those of us with the indwelling Holy Spirit has the strength to control our sinful desires, to say “no” to our flesh. Self-control gives us the power to say “yes” to the Spirit and foster a beautiful, bountiful harvest of spiritual fruit!
THE FRUIT OF SELF-CONTROL
The fruit of self-control speaks to resisting the ways of the world and living a Godly life. It means that we are living by the Fruit of the Spirit instead of the works of the flesh. It takes self-control to allow the Holy Spirit to work through us and live by love for others. This doesn’t mean love as the world loves, but the agape love of Jesus.
It takes self-control to live by the fruit of the spirit.
Do you feel joy when you’re faced with a life-threatening illness?
Do you approach strife in a peaceful manner?
Are you longsuffering and forgiving when someone has hurt you?
Do you kindly put the needs of others before your own?
Do you show generosity when you have a friend who is going through a tough time and needs a friend to listen?
Do you hold onto your faith in the face of a world crisis or battle with a health issue?
Are you a humble, meek and gentle servant of Jesus, showing love and compassion in every way?
All of these things take self-control. And we know that it doesn’t come naturally to us. It is only by allowing that Holy Spirit to connect our branch to the vine that is Jesus Christ.
CONTINUES TOMORROW …
