How can we "control our own bodies" in holiness and honor today? Setting the scene Paul writes to believers living in a pagan culture, urging lives that stand out. Holiness is not an optional extra; it is God’s will “that each of you must know how to control his own body in holiness and honor” (1 Thessalonians 4:4). Why our bodies matter • Created good: “God saw all that He had made, and it was very good” (Genesis 1:31). • Redeemed at a price: “You were bought at a price” (1 Corinthians 6:20). • Indwelt now: “Your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit” (1 Corinthians 6:19). • Destined for resurrection: “He who raised Jesus will also raise us” (2 Colossians 4:14). Practical paths to holiness and honor • Present your body daily: “offer your bodies as a living sacrifice” (Romans 12:1). • Train your mind: “Set your minds on things above” (Colossians 3:2). • Direct your eyes: “I have made a covenant with my eyes” (Job 31:1). • Guard your heart: “Above all else, guard your heart” (Proverbs 4:23). • Order your habits: plan sleep, diet, exercise, and media intake for God’s glory. • Practice accountability: invite trusted believers to speak into your life. • Engage in purposeful service: busy hands for Christ leave little room for sin. Strength for the struggle • Spirit dependence: “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16). • Word saturation: “By guarding it according to Your word” (Psalm 119:9). • Fellowship encouragement: “encourage one another daily” (Hebrews 3:13). • Grace for failures: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive” (1 John 1:9). Guardrails for purity • Flee tempting situations (2 Titus 2:22). • Filter digital content; install safeguards. • Set clear relational boundaries before dates or engagements. • Refuse entertainment that celebrates immorality. Living counter-culture • Contentment over consumerism. • Modesty over exhibitionism. • Sobriety over intoxication. • Reverence over profanity. The goal is not legalism but love that seeks the highest good of others and honors God. Hope-fueled motivation • Expectation: “The Lord is coming soon” (Philippians 4:5). • Reward: “Each will receive his praise from God” (1 Colossians 4:5). • Witness: “Let your light shine before men” (Matthew 5:16). Controlling our bodies in holiness and honor is possible today as we remember whose we are, rely on the Spirit, and look for the soon-coming King. |
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