Walking With Jesus (Self Control)Sample

More than a hero 

“Jesus answered them and said, “Most assuredly, I say to you, you seek Me, not because you saw the signs, but because you ate of the loaves and were filled.’” 

John 6:26

“He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.” 

Proverbs 16:32

We often talk about "taking the city" in terms of missions, outreach, or other "spiritual warfare" terms, but it's good to pay attention to the aspect of "mastering himself." It would be wise for us to question how much we can control ourselves before rushing to take the city. In Christianity, character will be the key to all our victories. Even a person who has patience will be considered to be greater than a hero.  A person who masters his achievements is considered to be greater than someone who takes a city.

Learning to handle ourselves is a basic requirement and a wise step to know how to handle our city. The Bible reminds us, “But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I should become disqualified.” 

(1 Corinthians 9:27). The stumbling block in preaching the Gospel is also related to self-control. This will give birth to an understanding that our lives actually "talk" louder than our preaching.

When the crowds found Lord Jesus, Lord Jesus said to them: “Most assuredly, I say to you, you seek Me, not because you saw the signs, but because you ate of the loaves and were filled. … I am the bread of life. …” (John 6:26,35). People sought Lord Jesus because they were "full" by "eating" the life of Lord Jesus, not simply because they had listened to Jesus' sermons or received signs from Him.

Reflection:

1. How good is your self-control when you are attacked or lose your rights? How much self-control do you have in the areas of finance, bitterness, and uncleanness?

2. Have you been a blessing through your self-control?

Application: 

Let's learn to train our bodies and control ourselves, so we won't be rejected when we share the Good news