Self-control.

Our final component of the Fruit of the Spirit sermon series is on self-control. Self-control is the ability to control one's emotions, passions, and actions by the use of one's own will. That seems simple enough; be in control of yourself.

The Apostle Paul gives some great self-disclosure on this topic of self-control:

“For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out. For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me” (Romans 7:18-20).

Oh! That seems to say that self-control might be a little bit more intense and evasive than just doing the right thing. Paul makes it sound like he is grappling within himself. It’s as if a part of himself knows what is right but another part of himself does not agree with that course of action and has determined to express itself counter to the proper, moral approach.

Self-control must come from the Spirit of God. It is an outpouring of God’s Spirit living in us. And how does the Holy Spirit become an apt dweller in our hearts and lives?

We’ve been touching on this for each facet of the Fruit of the Spirit series: It is through the Word of God that the Spirit of God has access to our hearts and fills us with the spiritual nutrition that produces self-control.

“How can a young person stay on the path of purity?

By living according to your word.

10 I seek you with all my heart;

do not let me stray from your commands.

11 I have hidden your word in my heart

that I might not sin against you” (Psalm 119:9-11).

May God’s Spirit fill us and create a stronger reality of morality: self-control!

Blessings to you all.