Day 49 - Self-Control

I think there’s a good reason why self-control is listed last of the virtues that make up the fruit of the Spirit. It’s because to my mind, it takes all the others in practice to give me what it takes to practice self-control. One theologian calls self-control the “king of all virtues.” Self-control is defined in two ways: 1) the act of denying yourself and controlling your impulses, and 2) the trait of resolutely controlling your own behavior.

What are you tempted by that is sinful, expensive, or fattening? Are you able to resolutely control your temptation? How do you do that? Barclay, in his commentary on this passage, says, “Self-control is that great quality which comes to a man when Christ is in his heart, that quality which makes him able to live and to walk in the world and yet keep his heart and mind safe and under God’s control.”

Take a few minutes to read Matthew 4:1-11 concerning the temptations of Christ. This account is also found in Mark 1:12-13 and Luke 4:1-13.

Remember: Satan is real and so are his temptations. He is in the business of trying to get us to live our lives his way or our own way, rather than God’s way. When temptations seem especially strong, or when you think you can rationalize giving in, consider whether Satan may be trying to block God’s purposes for your life or for someone else’s life (Life Application Bible). It’s important to note that temptation itself is not a sin. It’s when we give in to a temptation and disobey God that is sinful (James 1:13-15).

I’ve observed that we are tempted when and where we are most vulnerable. Maybe we’re tired, lonely, stressed, faced with uncertainty, or trying to make big decisions when Satan tempts us. Or perhaps it’s the opposite; it’s when we are feeling in control and our pride takes over. It is why we are instructed to guard our hearts all of the time.

I am encouraged when I remember that Christ was fully human and experienced temptation firsthand just as I have. Hebrews 4:15 says, “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin.” There is no way to overcome temptation without the power of the Holy Spirit. Even Jesus faced temptation with the Holy Spirit filling Him with the Word of God and power.

Sailing enthusiasts will tell you that shortcuts set you up for failure. It is so important to pay attention to detail and simply to things right. Likewise it makes no sense to begin our spiritual journey with great fervor and reliance on the Holy Spirit, only to slough-off in our battle against sin. We cannot set our direction according to our own desires and impulses and still hope to make good progress in our spiritual journey.

Do you pay attention and guard your heart? Are you willing to let the Holy Spirit lead you and transform your life? Open your heart-sail so it can catch the wind.