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Your Question:
can i still have a sense of control
Answer:
I. Introduction The concept of self-control is often misunderstood as a means to control one's desires and impulses. However, the Bible presents self-control as a skill learned through the power of the Spirit within us, allowing us to master our own impulses and emotions. This skill is a blessing from God, enabling us to say no to sinful desires, even when it hurts. The question remains, can we still have a sense of control in our lives, even when we are not in control of our spiritual formation? II. The Illusion of Control The Bible reminds us that we are not in control of our spiritual formation. This is a hard lesson for followers of Jesus to learn, as we often try to shape our own spiritual lives. However, God's ways are much better than our own, and He has a different approach to spiritual formation. Instead of yelling at us to shape up, God teaches us to intentionally design our lives to give Jesus free rein over our formation. This means we surrender our control and allow God to work in us. III. Practicing Self-Control Self-control is a skill that can be learned and practiced. It involves mastering our own impulses and emotions, our willfulness, our tongue, our behavior, and our moods. This skill is not about being in control, but about being receptive to God's guidance and wisdom. By practicing self-control, we can develop a deeper sense of joy and satisfaction in our lives. It's not about giving up things we enjoy, but about having more practice at saying no to sinful desires and yes to God's desires. As John Ortberg says, "If we do this, a whole new level of joy becomes available." By surrendering our control and allowing God to work in us, we can experience a sense of freedom and joy that we never thought possible. In this way, we can still have a sense of control, but it's not about controlling our own lives; it's about allowing God to control us, and guiding us towards a life of joy and satisfaction.
Sources:
addictions a banquet in the grave
edward t welch
practicing the way
john mark comer
raising passionate jesus followers
phil diane comer
christian theology
millard erickson
warranted christian belief
alvin plantinga
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