Why is self-control important for living a life pleasing to God? Living to Please God Begins with Governing Ourselves “that each of you must know how to control his own body in holiness and honor” (1 Thessalonians 4:4) Why Self-Control Matters to God • It guards holiness. God explicitly links purity with self-mastery (1 Thessalonians 4:3–5). • It keeps us from grieving the Spirit who indwells us (Ephesians 4:30). • It demonstrates genuine love for God and neighbor, because uncontrolled desires always wound someone (Romans 13:10). • It confirms the transforming work of salvation—“For God has not called us to impurity, but to holiness” (1 Thessalonians 4:7). Fruit That Proves the Root • Galatians 5:22-23—self-control appears in the Spirit’s fruit list; its presence signals true spiritual life. • Titus 2:11-12—grace “trains us…to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives”; grace never excuses excess. • 2 Peter 1:5-7—adding self-control to faith keeps believers “effective and productive.” Guarding the Vessel Preserves Purity • 1 Corinthians 6:18—“Flee from sexual immorality.” Running takes discipline; staying pure protects the temple of the Holy Spirit (6:19-20). • Proverbs 25:28—“Like a city broken into and left without walls is a man who lacks self-control.” Boundaries prevent invasion by sin. Self-Control Frees Us for Service • 1 Corinthians 9:24-27—Paul likens believers to athletes who “discipline their body” to win an eternal crown; mastery over appetites yields readiness for ministry. • 2 Timothy 2:4—soldiers avoid entanglements to please their commanding officer. Restraint keeps our focus on Kingdom assignments. Daily Practices that Strengthen Self-Control • Fill your mind with Scripture (Psalm 119:9-11); truth crowds out temptation. • Cultivate sober thinking—remember future judgment and reward (Romans 14:12). • Establish righteous habits: regular worship, fellowship, and rest (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Use accountability—invite trusted believers to ask hard questions (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). • Depend on the Spirit—“walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16). The Result: A Life That Delights the Lord When believers rule their bodies instead of being ruled by cravings, they walk “in holiness and honor,” fulfilling God’s will and shining His character before a watching world. |
    |