Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Importance Self-control, often synonymous with temperance, is a virtue that involves the ability to regulate one's emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in the face of temptations and impulses. It is a critical aspect of Christian character and spiritual maturity, enabling believers to live in accordance with God's will and to resist sin. Biblical References Self-control is frequently mentioned in the Bible as a fruit of the Spirit and a mark of a life transformed by faith in Christ. 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." In 2 Peter 1:5-6 , believers are encouraged to develop self-control as part of their spiritual growth: "For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith virtue; and to virtue, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness." Examples and Teachings The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings on the importance of self-control. Proverbs 25:28 compares a person without self-control to a city broken into and left without walls, highlighting the vulnerability and chaos that result from a lack of discipline: "Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control." The life of Jesus Christ exemplifies perfect self-control. Despite being tempted by Satan in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11), Jesus remained steadfast and did not succumb to temptation, demonstrating His divine nature and providing a model for believers to follow. The Apostle Paul also speaks of self-control in the context of spiritual discipline and the Christian life. In 1 Corinthians 9:25-27 , he uses the metaphor of an athlete training for a race to illustrate the need for self-control: "Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable crown, but we an imperishable one. Therefore I do not run aimlessly; I do not fight like I am beating the air. No, I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified." Practical Application Self-control is essential for overcoming sinful desires and living a life that honors God. It involves making conscious choices to align one's actions with biblical principles, often requiring sacrifice and perseverance. Believers are encouraged to rely on the Holy Spirit for strength and guidance in exercising self-control, as it is not merely a human effort but a divine enablement. In practical terms, self-control can manifest in various areas of life, including speech, thoughts, emotions, and actions. James 1:19 advises, "My beloved brothers, understand this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger," emphasizing the need for restraint in communication and emotional responses. Conclusion While self-control is a challenging virtue to cultivate, it is integral to the Christian walk. Through prayer, study of Scripture, and reliance on the Holy Spirit, believers can grow in self-control, reflecting the character of Christ and bearing witness to the transformative power of the gospel. Topical Bible Verses Titus 1:8But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate; Topicalbible.org Galatians 5:22-23 Proverbs 25:28 Greek 1466. egkrateia -- mastery, self-control ... mastery, self-control. Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: egkrateia Phonetic Spelling: (eng-krat'-i-ah) Short Definition: self-mastery, self ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1466.htm - 7k 1467. egkrateuomai -- to exercise self-control 4995. sophronismos -- self-control 4997. sophrosune -- soundness of mind, self-control 193. akrates -- powerless, impotent 192. akrasia -- want of power 4993. sophroneo -- to be of sound mind, ie to be temperate 4102. pistis -- faith, faithfulness 857. apheidia -- unsparing treatment Library Self-Control. Self-Control. October 28. Self-Control. April 13. Letter ii. Self-Control and Self-Culture. An Unwalled City The Acquirement of Spiritual Power The "Gates of Hades" and the "Gates of Zion" Contrasted. The Fifth Word from the Cross Christian Asceticism James iii. 1, 2 Resources What does the Bible say about self-sacrifice / being self-sacrificial? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about being self-conscious? | GotQuestions.org How should a Christian view self-esteem? | GotQuestions.org Self: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Related Terms Self-controlled (9 Occurrences) Self-indulgence (4 Occurrences) Self-restraint (2 Occurrences) Self-confidence (2 Occurrences) Self-indulgent (3 Occurrences) Self-inflicted (2 Occurrences) Self-abasement (2 Occurrences) Self-complacency (1 Occurrence) Self-discipline (1 Occurrence) Self-forgetfulness (1 Occurrence) Self-mutilators (1 Occurrence) Self-recommendation (1 Occurrence) Self-exaltation (1 Occurrence) Self-congratulations (1 Occurrence) Self-disparagement (1 Occurrence) |
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