What does it mean when we talk about self control? The dictionary describes it as sensible, sober, and of sound mind. A person with self control would be in control of their physical, psychological, and spiritual being. They would not be in bondage to their desires, impulses, or passions.

Self control is the boldest inner quality that shows Christian maturity in you. It shows a balance between self confidence and timidity; totally leaving out self pride. Being prideful shows lack of self control and a desire to cater to your flesh. (Romans 12:3) Timidity shows fear and lack of faith. Paul stressed in his letter in 2 Timothy 1:7, 'For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power and love and of self discipline.'

I am reminded that not long ago I read a book about how a child, that had been severely abused by his mother, survived. In that same household lived the father that was dominated by the woman that he had no control over the situation and sadly stood by as the abuse went on. Timidity is by no means close to or related to humility. As Christians we are to humble ourselves to our God but we need boldness in our lives as we face the extremes of our faith; to face the enemy in standing up for what is our victory and in our walk with Christ, as well as in any other situation in our lives.

Lack of self control will often lead to addictions of carnality. We often fall victims of weaknesses and temptation. It can lead to so much destruction of our lives, our family, and loved ones. Our jobs can suffer and even our church life can fall under the weight of these addictions. It binds our happiness and joy. But through self control we can work towards freedom. When we draw near to God, and make the decision to let the Holy Spirit rule our lives, it will produce good fruit. (Galatians 5:22-23)

Ask yourself...

1. Do I find myself falling victim to my desires?
2. Has this brought grief and depression to my life?
3. Are my loved ones suffering because of this?
4. Do I find myself in heated arguments because I can't control my anger?
5. Does chaos often follow me at home, work, school, and in my relationships?
6. Do I find myself giving in to things easily, without thinking them through?
7. Can others talk me into doing things easily and do they take advantage of me?

In Ephesians 4:22-24 the bible tells us that you are to be, 'be renewed in the spirit of your mind... and put on the new self created to be just like God...'

Of course it's unreal for us to ever be like God. There is only one God, but we can always be focused on the goal of conforming our lives to that character. By becoming a new 'self' we begin to achieve that boldness to stand firm in our strength and we can overcome anything that brings temptation.

How do we achieve this? First admit to God that you are weak and need His strength. Humble yourself and submit entirely to Him. Proclaim that God's Word is the truth and you believe every word and promise that He has made in it, and that you believe that God is faithful to all His promises. Because His Word says He will strengthen you and protect you. (1 Corinthians 10:13)

Remember that we are dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus! (Romans 6:11-12)