Fruit of the SpiritSample

Self-control

Self-control is a powerful protection against all kinds of sins that Paul calls “works of the flesh”: “sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these” (Galatians 5:19-21). In other words, self-control is relevant in all areas of our lives. It means controlling ourselves, being able to fight evil desires and temptations. It means taking every thought captive to obey Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5).

If we lack this self-control, we are vulnerable like a city without walls. This starts with little things like restraining yourself from too much chocolate or from driving too fast. It can have significant consequences too, as we saw in Paul’s list of “works of the flesh”. Since none of us is able to control himself completely, in this area too we need God’s Spirit. “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16).

In which area of your life do you need more self-control? Do you ask God for it?