Devotional | Self-Control A Daily Investment

“The fruit of the spirit is Love, Joy, Peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” Galatians 5:22-23

According to the Bible, there is a struggle going on inside of all of us.  The Apostle Paul talks about how vital it is to live according to the Spirit so that we do not give in to our sinful nature.

He talks about how the Holy Spirit guides us and produces fruit in our lives. As we live day by day in connection to God, following His laws, and living according to His ways, we produce good fruit and become more like Jesus.

Jesus is the ultimate example of having control over Himself and being part of the purposes of God. If we can begin to see ourselves as active participants in the greater picture of God’s plan, we will be motivated to deny the parts of ourselves that want the comfort of food.  It will help us feel like we take responsibility for what we have been entrusted with- our body.

There are many circumstances outside of our control, but God has called us to protect and control our body. As we set boundaries for ourselves, we will begin our road to emotional and spiritual freedom. Our daily decisions to control our urges will become our new habit. Our new habit becomes a new way of life.

Dear Lord, thank you for sending your spirit to give me strength to have self-control. I cannot do this in my own strength. Please help me to begin to nurture self-control in my life. Thank you Father, In Jesus name- Amen.

“Mental toughness is many things…it’s qualities are sacrifice and self-denial. Also, most importantly, it is combined with a perfectly disciplined will that refuses to give. It’s a state of mind-you could call it character in action.” Vince Lombardi

“Be faithful in the small things because it is in them that lies your strength.”  Mother Teresa

“Your body is not in control of your mind—your mind is in control of your body, and your mind is stronger than your body. Mind certainly is over matter.”  Caroline Leaf, Switch On Your Brain: The Key to Peak Happiness, Thinking, and Health

Further Reflection: 2 Timothy 1:7, Colossians 1:10, Titus 2:11-14