Topical Encyclopedia Self-restraint, often synonymous with self-control, is a significant virtue in Christian theology and ethics, representing the ability to govern one's emotions, desires, and actions. It is a fruit of the Spirit, as outlined in the New Testament, and is essential for living a life that honors God and reflects His character.Biblical Foundation The concept of self-restraint is deeply rooted in Scripture. In Galatians 5:22-23 , the Apostle Paul lists self-control as one of the fruits of the Spirit: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law." This passage highlights self-restraint as a divine attribute that believers are called to cultivate through the Holy Spirit's work in their lives. Old Testament Insights The Old Testament also emphasizes the importance of self-restraint. Proverbs 25:28 states, "Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control." This vivid imagery underscores the vulnerability and chaos that result from a lack of self-restraint, likening it to a defenseless city open to attack. New Testament Teachings In the New Testament, self-restraint is frequently associated with spiritual maturity and discipline. In 1 Corinthians 9:25 , Paul uses the metaphor of an athlete to illustrate the necessity of self-control: "Everyone who competes in the games trains with strict discipline. They do it for a crown that is perishable, but we do it for a crown that is imperishable." Here, self-restraint is portrayed as essential for achieving spiritual goals and eternal rewards. Titus 2:11-12 further instructs believers on the role of self-restraint in the Christian life: "For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men. It instructs us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live sensible, upright, and godly lives in the present age." This passage connects self-restraint with the transformative power of God's grace, enabling believers to reject sinful desires and live righteously. Practical Application Self-restraint is not merely an abstract concept but a practical discipline that affects every aspect of a believer's life. It involves controlling one's tongue, as James 1:26 advises: "If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not bridle his tongue, he deceives his heart and his religion is worthless." This highlights the importance of self-restraint in speech, which can prevent harm and promote peace. Moreover, self-restraint is crucial in managing anger and emotions. Ephesians 4:26-27 warns, "Be angry, yet do not sin. Do not let the sun set upon your anger, and do not give the devil a foothold." This passage encourages believers to exercise self-control over their emotions, preventing sin and maintaining spiritual integrity. Role in Sanctification Self-restraint is integral to the process of sanctification, the ongoing transformation into Christlikeness. Romans 12:1-2 urges believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices and to be transformed by the renewing of their minds. This transformation involves the cultivation of self-restraint, enabling believers to discern and follow God's will. Challenges and Encouragement While self-restraint is a challenging virtue to develop, believers are encouraged by the promise of divine assistance. Philippians 4:13 offers assurance: "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." This verse reminds Christians that self-restraint is achievable through reliance on Christ's strength and the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit. In summary, self-restraint is a vital aspect of the Christian life, deeply rooted in biblical teaching and essential for spiritual growth and maturity. It is a discipline that believers are called to pursue, relying on God's grace and strength to overcome the challenges of the flesh and live in a manner that glorifies Him. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) Restraint over one's self; self-control; self-command.Greek 192. akrasia -- want of power ... to lack of self-control, self-indulgence. From akrates; want of self-restraint -- excess, incontinency. see GREEK akrates. (akrasian) -- 1 Occurrence. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/192.htm - 7k 1466. egkrateia -- mastery, self-control 1467. egkrateuomai -- to exercise self-control 4997. sophrosune -- soundness of mind, self-control 193. akrates -- powerless, impotent 463. anoche -- a delaying, forbearance Library And with what Moderation and Self-Restraint those Men Used their ... As, Then, this Act of Self-Restraint, which in Appearance is one ... The True Gnostic Exercises Patience and Self-Restraint. The Mosaic Law the Fountain of all Ethics, and the Source from ... The True Excellence of Man. Commandment Eighth. We Ought to Shun that which is Evil, and do ... Discipline But Let us Come to These Two Commentaries which He Alone Excepts ... On the Fast of the Ten Month, viii. Otherwise, if Everything which Goes against Origen and his ... Thesaurus Self-restraint (2 Occurrences)Self-restraint. Self-respecting, Self-restraint. Selfrighteousness . Noah Webster's Dictionary ... Multi-Version Concordance Self-restraint (2 Occurrences). ... /s/self-restraint.htm - 7k Temperate (6 Occurrences) Temperance (3 Occurrences) Growing (31 Occurrences) Impotent (5 Occurrences) Drusilla (1 Occurrence) Continence (1 Occurrence) Continency (1 Occurrence) Childbirth (24 Occurrences) Self-control (14 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about temperance? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about moderation? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about being a godly woman? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Self-restraint (2 Occurrences)Galatians 5:23 1 Timothy 2:15 Subtopics Related Terms |
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