Of all of the fruits of the Spirit, self-control is the one that I struggle with the most. I often wonder if it is the last one listed because most people struggle with it. It directly relates to our sin nature – wanting things our way. We have this internal desire that is at war within us, and it constantly demands and entices.
I gave up drinking because there were times when I couldn’t stop. I would have a few, but then my self-control would go right out the window. I would be enjoying myself and then think about stopping, but then I would just have one more. God spoke into my heart and told me to stop. So, I did because I couldn’t control it on my own.
God’s laws and commands build a wall of protection around us. His commands are to protect our hearts. When we let sin in one area, pretty soon, the entire wall will crumble. There is no way to hold on to sin and still garner God’s full protection. We can not have a foot in both arenas.
Thankfully, self-control is not something we have to do on our own. It is a gift of the Spirit, and through the Spirit, we have the strength to maintain control over our bodies, actions, and thoughts. When we are able to face our sin and hand it over to Christ, we are set free from our own sinful nature and can enjoy the fruits of the Spirit.
Bring any stronghold that sin had over your life to the foot of the cross.
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