Self-control is exactly what it sounds like: control of self. Biblically it is the resistance to temptation in the ways of the world. It’s not about depriving oneself but about living a life in harmony with God’s purpose. It’s a reflection of the transformation in our hearts as we seek to live according to God’s will. It’s learning to say “No” to our desires when indulging them would be inappropriate and contrary to God’s design. If we lack self-control, we easily become a target for Satan. Our appetites for comforts and pleasures can easily become our master and lead us into sin or otherwise hinder us in our spiritual walk.

Resisting the constant pull of worldly desires is not always easy to do. This is why it’s important to understand that self-control is the work of the Holy Spirit, not work we can accomplish on our own. It is the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), not our fruit. It is when we give God control of our life that we gain self-control through the power of his Spirit. Through prayer, we can seek God’s guidance, strength, and wisdom in developing self-control. By surrendering to the Holy Spirit’s work within us, we can grow in the biblical concept of self-control, allowing it to shape our thoughts, actions, and desires in alignment with God’s will.

Praise

Praise God that he is sovereign and through his Spirit we have self-control. 2 Timothy 1:7, “for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”

Examine the Scriptures

Why is self-control important?

The fight for self-control is the fight of faith. 1 Timothy 6:12, “Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called and about which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.”

What does exercising self-control yield?

Self-control naturally leads to steadfastness. 2 Peter 1:6, “…and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, 

How can we grow in self-control?

By setting our minds on what God desires and living in accordance with his Sprit. Romans 8:5, “For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit.”

Pray

Abba,

Thank you for loving us and for never forsaking us. No matter how hard we try on our own, we will never have the discipline to break the bondage sin has over us. We pray for the power of the Holy Spirit to lead and guide us with self-control from the fruit of your Spirit. May we be strengthened to resist temptation and to make godly choices that are pleasing to you.

In Jesus’ name

Amen.

Note> Scripture references are from the English Standard Version.