Self-control is a fruit of the spirit talked about in the Bible. Self-control refers to the ability to govern one’s own actions, words, and decisions. Being able to choose wisdom over wants or desires shows self-discipline and maturity. Proverbs 25:28 says that a man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls. Having no walls leaves a city unprotected and defenseless. A life without self-control is one that invites potential trouble or difficulties.
How does one get more self-control? One way is to set long-term goals. Once we can see a long-term goal, the small temptations do not seem to have the same strength as they did without a goal. 1 Corinthians 9:25 says, “Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but to get a crown that will last forever.”
Another way to develop self-control is to do everything as unto the Lord. Knowing that what we choose will be pleasing to God will give us inner strength to do the right thing. Romans 12:1 say, “Therefore I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God- this is your true and proper worship.”
Choosing to set our minds on noble and pure things can help us focus on the bigger picture. Philippians 4:8 reminds us to think about whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent or praiseworthy. Refusing to dwell on negative things can help us keep our focus.
As we yield ourselves to the Spirit of God, we open ourselves up to the power of God. In 1 Corinthians 2:5 Paul says, “my message and my preaching were not in persuasive words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, so that your faith would not rest on the wisdom of men, but on the power of God.” We need the power of God to overcome temptation, battles, and distractions.
The Bible commands us to walk in the power of God. Ephesians 6:10 says “finally be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.” We cannot walk in the power of God and not have self-control. They go hand in hand. Living a victorious life means that we live surrendered to God, choosing to be self-controlled, and living in His power. Only then will we overcome.
Download Isik’s Prayer Guide to self-control and the power of God here!