Proverbs 25:28(KJV)
He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.
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. In other words, until we are responsible, we will destroy our destiny. If we cannot control ourselves, we cannot also control our destiny. Romans 7:18-20 says, “For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do. Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.”
The wall of a city is essential to its defenses. The wall serving as a barrier helps the city to withstand an opponent. When the wall is breached, the city has no more cover, and it is not difficult to conquer the city. 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. For when self-rule lacks control, it becomes captivity. It is, therefore, key to deal with the lack of self-control to have guaranteed fulfillment of life and destiny. 1 Corinthians 9:27 says, “But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.” There is an urgent need for all Christians to have the self-control to stay away from sin. Anyone who seeks to be a genuine follower of Jesus Christ must be willing to deny himself and live above the passing of this present world.
Beloved, you have to call yourself to order; you have to make a commitment to focus on Jesus Christ, the Author, and Finisher of our faith. God will never play your role even though He wants to honor you. Be pure through and through, willing to resist ungodly thoughts and every other thing that has the potential of defiling 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. Don’t associate with people who lack self-control. In other words, surround yourself with disciplined people. Refuse to give expression 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. If you cannot control what goes into your mind, you will never be able to control what flows through your life. So, learn to make yourself do the things you want to do right. Work daily to build high walls of the Word and godly living that will help you to repel the enemy when he comes. Ask the Holy Spirit to take over your life.
O Lord, I receive the grace to have self-control. Help me do the right things so I can fulfil Your Plan and Purpose for my life in Jesus’ Name.