Message Library

The Power of Self-Control

Posted on

Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.

Proverbs 25:28

Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit and we have the power of God to overcome Satan’s attacks to our emotions. There are many things in life that trigger our emotions which can cause us to react without Godly wisdom.  Our emotions can cause loss of self-control and replace it with anger. It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. (Galatians 5:1) Self-control brings freedom because we know Satan lost his power to trigger our emotions.

Whoever is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city. (Proverbs 16:32 ESV) Anger is an emotion that can cause an ungodly reaction, but if we are still inside connected to the Lord, anger loses its power over us. This is the power of God in us which enables us to overcome the world. The Lord will help us to see our emotions differently.  This causes our emotions to drive us to the Lord seeking an opportunity to respond in Godly wisdom. Remaining relaxed and still inside, even when people expect us to react to an emotional situation, is a powerful witness for the Lord.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. (Galatian 5:22-23) How can we have lasting peace and joy without having self-control? Self-control as a fruit of the Spirit means the Lord will enable us to live relaxed with self-control, just as Jesus was always in control.  Self-control is something worth fighting for because Satan normally tempt us through our emotions, because he is trying to steal our peace and joy.

Today, be still inside and be ready for Satan’s emotional attacks. Seek to always react with calmness and Godly wisdom, and don’t let people or situations control your emotions. When an emotional state arises, let it drive you to seek peace and respond with Godly wisdom.

Prayer:  Lord, guide me in your wisdom when tempted to emotionally react.  Help me to remain still inside and connected to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.