What practical steps can we take to develop "self-control" in challenging situations? The Fruit That Flows from the Spirit • “...gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” (Galatians 5:23) • Self-control is not a personality trait we muster up; it is a supernatural fruit produced as we walk by the Spirit. • Because Scripture is accurate and literal, we can trust that this fruit is truly available to every believer. Remember Who Supplies the Strength • “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:13) • “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.” (2 Timothy 1:7) Practical step: When pressure rises, speak these truths aloud. Affirm that the Holy Spirit, not your willpower, is the source of restraint. Plant Your Mind in Truth • Daily Bible intake saturates thoughts with God’s perspective. • “I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You.” (Psalm 119:11) Practical steps: – Read one Gospel paragraph or one Psalm each morning. – Memorize short verses related to your specific struggle (anger, lust, spending, etc.). – Write them on cards or a phone lock screen for quick recall. Train Through Small Daily Choices • “Everyone who competes in the games trains with strict discipline.” (1 Corinthians 9:25) Practical steps: – Set tiny “micro-limits” (skip one sweet, stop scrolling after ten minutes). – Celebrate each small victory; consistency builds spiritual muscle. – When you fail, confess immediately (1 John 1:9) and start again—failure becomes a rep in God’s gym. Use God-Given Tools in the Heat of Battle 1. Pray briefly: “Lord, I submit to You now” (James 4:7). 2. Recall a promise: 1 Corinthians 10:13—there is always an escape route. 3. Change the scene: step outside, put the phone down, take a walk. 4. Lean on accountability: text a trusted believer the moment temptation strikes. 5. Employ fasting: periodic denial of lawful pleasures trains the will to say no to unlawful ones. Guard the Walls • “Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control.” (Proverbs 25:28) Practical steps: – Identify triggers (late-night TV, certain apps, specific people). – Install physical or digital boundaries before the pressure hits. – Keep sleep, nutrition, and exercise in order; a fatigued body weakens resolve. Dress for Spiritual Battle • “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes.” (Ephesians 6:11) Practical steps: – Belt of truth: rehearse Scripture each morning. – Breastplate of righteousness: remind yourself you are clothed in Christ’s righteousness, not your performance. – Shield of faith: actively trust God’s promises when fiery darts fly. Live by Grace, Not Grit Alone • “The grace of God... instructs us to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age.” (Titus 2:11-12) • Grace both forgives past failures and empowers present obedience. Practical step: When you fall, run toward God, not away. Receive His cleansing, then rise to walk in fresh power. Keep the Long View in Sight • Picture the eternal “imperishable crown” promised to disciplined runners (1 Corinthians 9:25). • Anticipate hearing, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Let that future joy fuel present restraint. Encouragement for the Journey Self-control develops like fruit on a tree—slowly, surely, inevitably—as you abide in Christ day by day. Stay planted in His Word, rely on His Spirit, practice the small daily choices, and watch the fruit grow even in the most challenging situations. |
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