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Fruit of the Spirit - Self-control - Weekly Devotional
This week's focus: Self-Control
Self-control helps us to resist temptation and avoid conforming to the things of this world. It guides our decisions, and it correlates with how we show the other fruits in our lives.
For example, forbearance, or patience, requires self-control. Proverbs 14:29 says, “Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly.” Our sinful nature leads us to give in to our temper, but we are called to rise above this and show patience.
Self-control can be applied to all of the fruits of the Spirit in the same way it is applied to forbearance.
Displaying self-control is often a matter of responding rather than reacting. When we react to a situation, we let our emotions take control. We are more likely to become defensive and say hurtful things. Responding, however, involves developing a thoughtful response that is guided by reason more than emotions.
With the Holy Spirit inside of us, we are able to possess self-control and demonstrate the fruits of the Spirit. As a result, we can live in a way that is honorable to God.
So, next time you are in a tough situation, remember Jesus and the perfect example he gave us of how to live. While it may seem challenging to demonstrate self-control, the rewards will be great.
2 Timothy 1:7 (ESV)
“for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”
Prayer Points:
“On this Memorial Day, I pray that as you take time to remember the valor of those who have given their lives in service to our nation, you would also remember the goodness of God in your own life and his many blessings upon our nation. I pray this would cause you to cherish your liberty in the United States, and more importantly in Christ, and this would give you boldness and hope for the future.” Read more from our National Spokesperson, Lt. Col. Allen West (Ret.). on the importance of remembering.
We want to see God honored in America, and we pray for an unprecedented spiritual awakening.
This devotion was produced in partnership with Every Home for Christ.
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