Genesis 39:11-12(KJV) :
And it came to pass about this time, that Joseph went into the house to do his business; and there was none of the men of the house there within. And she caught him by his garment, saying, Lie with me: and he left his garment in her hand, and fled, and got him out.
The story of Joseph and Potiphar’s household began when he bought Joseph as a household servant in Genesis 37. The Bible says the Lord was with Joseph, so he prospered in everything he did. When his master saw that the Lord was with him and gave him success in everything he did, Joseph found favor in his eyes. Potiphar put Joseph in charge of his household and entrusted everything to his care. With Joseph in charge, he did not concern himself with anything except the food he ate. Joseph was well-built and a handsome young man, and he eventually caught the attention of Potiphar’s wife. She attempted to sleep with him many times, but Joseph continually refused. One day, he goes into the house while all the servants are out. Alone with her, she asks him to sleep with her, and she catches him by his cloak; but Joseph manages to free himself and runs out of the house. Joseph chose godliness over sin when he had to choose between the pleasures of sin and the gains of righteousness. Potiphar’s wife promised happiness and sensual satisfaction, but Joseph saw iniquity, refusing to do this great wickedness. Rather than yield to the temptation to sin against God, Joseph refused bluntly. Had he gone in, he would have settled his destiny and prevented him from fulfilling the purpose of God for his life. Proverbs 16:32 says, “He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.”
Self-control is a self-imposed standard, a restriction motivated by a desire other than the alternative, created by a power of choice. It also means the ability to regulate our emotions, thoughts, and behavior in the face of temptations and impulses. Self-control is perhaps the least popular among the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:23). And yet such a vital and necessary part of bearing fruit spiritually. It is essential for anyone who desires to be godly. Destiny thrives in an atmosphere of self-control. So, a lack of self-control is an enemy of destiny that prevents us from fulfilling God’s plan and purpose on earth. It has crippled the futures of many people. Proverbs 25:28 says, “He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.” The wall of a city is essential to its defenses, so when the wall is breached, it leaves a city without cover, making it easy to conquer. Likewise, as significant as self-control is, we can destroy our lives and relationships and tear down trust without it. A life without self-control is a life where everything goes. While we cannot control every circumstance around us or what happens to us, we are responsible for how we respond and react. If we don’t learn to control our actions and words, in the long run, it can lead us in the wrong direction. It is, therefore, key to deal with the lack of self-control to have guaranteed fulfillment of life and destiny.
Beloved, call yourself to order; commit to focusing on Jesus Christ, the Author and Finisher of our faith. Be pure through and through, willing to resist ungodly thoughts and every other thing that can defile you physically and spiritually, for sin makes a vessel impure. The fact is that if your own life cannot respect your choices, there is nothing on earth that will respect you. You cannot go far if you are not ready to be self-controlled. So, make up your mind to live a lifestyle of self-control and discipline. Refuse to give in to satanic manifestations such as lust, anger, hatred, bitterness, jealousy, and envy. Control your tongue, eyes, thoughts, and feelings. Because if you cannot put yourself under control, the devil will use the things around you to control you. Work daily to build high walls of the Word and godly living that will help you repel the enemy when he comes. When you’re faced with a challenge, or inclined to give in to temptation, ask God for His direction and discernment. For relying on His power gives Him glory and causes your light to shine as a witness to others. With God’s help, you can step out of your comfort zone into a life of self-control, rest, and trust. Remember, God has planned abundant blessings for you, don’t miss out!
O Lord, give me the grace to have self-control to fulfill Your Plan and Purpose for my life in Jesus’ Name.