“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.”
Galatians 5:22-23 NASB
Grace Perspective:
Self-control is the last slice of the fruit of the Spirit that Paul covers in this passage. We can compare it to the skin on the fruit as it covers all the other pieces. Without the protection of self-control, the other slices are susceptible to the blights of temptation, distraction, and sin.
Self-control means we don’t allow our flesh to guide our decisions but seek God to direct our choices. Self-control gives us the strength to purposely live from love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, and faithfulness. With the Holy Spirit empowering us, we can live self-controlled lives that bear gracious fruit.
A Touch of Grace:
What area in your life do you need more self-control?
Write out a prayer asking God to strengthen you in specific areas where self-control is weak.
Grace Application:
Self-control is a pivotal aspect of the fruit of the Spirit. We see the word “self” in this, and I don’t know about you, but “self” triggers a whole host of thoughts. I know myself well enough that if I’m not careful, the selfish part of me will use control for my own gain.
Does anyone struggle with self-image? I do. Looking good, being at the “perfect” weight, so I look cute consumed my life for many years. Don’t get me wrong, self-control in eating, exercising, and resting is essential, but what is the motivation controlling these? Is it so others look at me and say, “Girl, you look good!” or am I motivated by a desire to please God? Honestly, for most of my life, it was the first response I was looking for. I wanted the praise of others more than pleasing God. Ugh…self without the Holy Spirit’s help, I’m a mess. When I’m tempted to despair that I’ll never gain ground in this area, I remember Who lives inside me and where I need to turn for help.
Dear Friend, we aren’t meant to rely on ourselves for control. God provides what we need to be controlled by the Spirit; we simply need to ask Him for help. He promises to give us the strength to fight against our selfish desires. (Psalm 141: 1-3, Matthew 6:9-15) Our job is to trust Him to provide us with what we need to be self-controlled for His purposes. While we benefit from exercising self-control, the ultimate gift is knowing that God is pleased when we chose to live a life empowered by Him so that love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, and gentleness blossom and bear much fruit so others can taste and see the goodness of God. May the gracious fruit of the spirit take deep root in each of us for the glory of the Lord.
Prayer
Gracious Father, I come to You in the precious name of Jesus Christ, my Savior, thankful that You never grow weary and are always there when I cry out for strength. Forgive me when I choose to live selfishly, focused on my comfort and for the praise of others. Lord, help me to wait on You for the control to live a life that embraces the fruit of the Spirit.
May others see You and be drawn to know You as Savior. Amen
**Today, as you read this, I pray each of you will know for sure you are in Christ Jesus. If you have any doubts, please call out to God so that all doubt is erased. Today is a good day to be assured of Salvation in Christ Jesus. If you have any questions, please contact me at graceisdawning@gmail.com**