Self-Control

Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control. (Proverbs 25:28)

Faith not only brings us salvation, but through faith every other spiritual promise is received. And self-control is one of those spiritual blessings (Gal. 5:23 and 2 Tim. 1:7). You may have it if you will believe God for it. There is no excuse for a Christian to languish in an life out of control, where sin goes on unabated, where temptations are quickly entertained. Believe that this is the will of God, that God can establish a spirit of self-control in you, and you will receive it.

To live without it is courting disaster. In the critical moment you will fail because you were not prepared — like a city whose walls are broken through, a city that can be invaded by the enemy’s whim. Do not live like this. Such a city, and such a person may have appearance of stability and discipline. They may appear solid and reliable, but they are not. The enemy allows them success only to invade and defeat them at the opportune moment.

Instead, let God strengthen you. Let him show you how to say no to temptation, and how to become stronger in the Lord. Self-control is not merely the power to say no to sin, but it is also the strength to say yes to spiritual growth. Hunger and thirst after the righteousness of God and you will be filled. Do you believe this? If the answer is no, then that explains your struggles. Claim it by faith and let God show you how to repair the wall of your soul that protects you.

For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. (2 Timothy 1:7)