A Battle of Self-Control

A Battle of Self-Control
Devotion by Pastor Alexander L. Redd
May 12, 2024

"Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control." (Proverbs 25:28  NIV).

It is easy for others' actions to sway our emotions and disrupt our peace. However, Christ's life cautions us toward a higher standard characterized by self-control and calmness.

Self-control is not a sign of weakness but a strength that allows you to handle life's challenges gracefully and resiliently. The Bible teaches that a person lacking self-control is like a city with broken walls. Such a city is vulnerable to attack and unable to protect itself from external forces.
 
In the same way, lacking self-control opens the door to being controlled by other external forces and makes you susceptible to the world's negative influences. But how can you develop self-control and maintain calmness during tough times? The answer lies in your faith and the wisdom found in God's Word.

A great way to start is to anchor yourself in the truth of God's promises. When you firmly believe that God is in control of your life, you can trust in His plan and not allow the actions of others to dictate your emotions.

As Proverbs 16:32 says, "Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city." Your true strength lies in remaining steadfast in God's truth rather than being swayed by the fleeting actions of others.

Grow in a spirit of calmness and peace within yourself. This does not mean suppressing your emotions but allowing God's wisdom to govern your response to opposing forces you may encounter. James 1:19 says, "My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry."

When you practice patience and listen to God's voice, your emotions do not overpower your intelligence. Rather than reacting impulsively, you can respond with wisdom and love in challenging situations.

Just as Christ Jesus did not always live a life to please people, but His heavenly Father, you too, must not base your life on pleasing others but on living according to God's will. Galatians 1:10 says, "Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ."
 
Listen, my friend. When you allow others to control your life, you lose sight of what God made you to be, your identity in Christ, and your purpose, and become entangled in others' opinions and desires. But when you surrender to God's guidance and seek His approval above all else, you find true freedom and peace.

Write Pastor Redd: info@ghopefellowship.org
Website: www.gracioushopefellowship.com