Juicy Fruit of the Spirit #9: Self Control

Oh, if there is one thing I lack and continually ask God for, it's self-control. Everything we pray for and worry about seems to stem back to self-control, be it finances, being healthy, prioritizing our time, ridding our lives of sin, etc. Please pray today that Joshua (and me, too!) would demonstrate self-control throughout his life by the grace of the Holy Spirit living in him. In the Bible, we are told to be self-controlled so we can pray and not fall into temptation.

1 Peter 4:7
The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray.

1 Peter 5:8
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

In addition, we are told to be self-controlled and set a good example.

Titus 2:4-8
Then they can train the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God. Similarly, encourage the young men to be self-controlled. In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.

Lastly, I was researching self-control today and how to overcome the spiritual battles we face in life. I highly enjoyed this excerpt from one of Max Lucado's (my favorite author!) devotionals, especially the last one. It spoke to me of not ever taking the extraordinary gifts I've been given - like Shawn, Joshua & our families - for granted...hope you enjoy it! Please pray that Joshua would have self-control and grow up to learn the wisdom found in the Bible.

http://www.maxlucado.com/pdf/win.battles.pdf