Fruit of Self-Control

9-4-2012 by Boyd Bailey “The fruit of the Spirit is self-control…” Galatians 5:23 Self-control is the temperate fruit that blossoms on the vine of the Spirit. It uses the gasoline of grace to govern the engine of a disciple’s activity. Proper self-control is Spirit control, since the flesh can be determined and disciplined without the horsepower of the Holy Spirit. Spirit-led self-control bows to no ego—it only surrenders to Christ. It is free from the desires and whims of the flesh. The body is a good servant, but a poor master. The fruit of self-control breaks unholy habits and replaces them with holy habits. It is so much more than just having a disciplined temperament—it is a mindset that is mastered by Christ’s preferences. We can’t confuse self-reliance with the Spirit’s self-control. Self- control relies on the Spirit’s energy and insight to accomplish God’s will. It is the difference between gutting out a bad circumstance without Christ or walking with Christ. “As Paul talked about righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and said, “That’s enough for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you.” Acts 24:25 We don’t wait to embrace self-control when it becomes convenient—fools flounder in the meantime. Thus, start immediately and initiate self-control in your sexual thoughts and desires. Install boundaries around what you read and watch. An unbridled body is disrespected and discarded. Furthermore, control your conversations, so they do not become caustic and uncaring. Remain silent, rather that spew unkindness on another. Control your desires or they will control you. For example, control your weight by eating smaller portions of food. Control your sleep by going to bed earlier and rising earlier. Control your work by turning off your computer in the evenings. Control your rest by resting on Sundays. Control your time by managing a calendar. Control your money by managing a budget. When Christ controls you—you are capable of controlling your life. Self-control is the Spirit’s work, but your cooperation is required. Ultimately, God is in control. “For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.” Titus 2:11-13 Prayer: Heavenly Father, I surrender to Your control, so that I can apply self-control. Related Scriptures: Job 37:15; 1 Corinthians 7:9; 9:25-27; 2 Peter 1:6; Titus 2:5