Self-control, a timely subject

Today’s blog post is the most relevant for any age group and time. It is a timeless principle for people living on earth. Why do we need to read a message on the topic? Because it is lacking in the majority and not the word people want to hear but we need to hear it and apply it for good relationships, & character development. This is required in all things. Being in control of what one says and how one speaks to whom is necessary in daily inter-personal relationships. One’s emotions without control can create a commotion. And one’s uncontrolled sexual appetite could lead to immorality. Who is responsible and how does this all begin? Ever since we were children, most mothers and fathers know we have to learn to be self-controlled because they would not be there to guide us always. Those of us who responded to their training positively have made much progress in life. A disciplined life is a self-controlled life and vice-versa. God initiated this characteristic and it has trickled down from generation to generation. The true prophets brought to our attention the importance of being self-controlled.

Self-control is not difficult to understand; only easily breakable. In the kingdom of God, we should come to an understanding of our limits or boundaries. There are physical boundaries and there are mental boundaries. (Mental ones are difficult to ascertain or establish because each personality and upbringing is involved). Depending on the solidity of the boundary the line is not easily crossed. But what if people have somehow developed a cast-off all restraint mind-set? This is on the increase, and blaming the government or someone else for wrong personal attitudes is not going to solve the problem.

The righteous and the innocent are suffering immensely due to the misbehavior of the unrighteous and wicked. The righteous act as salt and keep the perversion and deterioration in check. I have suffered, and, have also caused suffering, due to lack of self-control. What about you?

Jesus didn’t use the word self-control but spoke about it in this way, “If any man come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow me”. This does not come naturally, but supernaturally; it has to be taught and learned. Know that it is not something that is done once, but it is to be practiced daily.

In conclusion

Let’s be self-controlled. It is the fruit of the spirit. Against self-control there is no law. I end with this prayer, "God help us be self-controlled, enable us to bear this fruit, I ask in the name of Jesus, Amen".