Biblical Answer

The Illusion of Control

We often think we are in control of our lives, but the Bible teaches us that we are not. In fact, it says that our sinful desires are like a raging river that we cannot control. We try to master our impulses and emotions, but we often end up enslaved by them. This is why self-control is a crucial aspect of our spiritual formation. It involves learning to say no to sinful desires, even when it hurts, and mastering our willfulness, tongue, and behavior.

The Gift of Self-Control

Self-control is not something we can achieve on our own. It is a gift of the Holy Spirit, given through faith in Jesus Christ. It is a side effect of relying on God's grace and allowing Him to rescue us from temptation. When we give Jesus free rein over our lives, we experience a whole new level of joy and freedom. We are no longer controlled by our sinful desires, but instead, we are able to live in contentment and peace, even in the midst of challenges and difficulties.

The Key to Self-Control

So, how do we get self-control? The key is to rely on God's grace and to intentionally design our lives to give Jesus free rein over our formation. This means setting boundaries and living within them, even when it's hard. It means saying no to sinful desires and yes to God's will. It means trusting in God's goodness and sovereignty, even when we don't understand what's happening. When we do this, we experience the blessing of self-control, and we are able to live a life that is truly free and joyful.