Biblical Answer

Self-control is a skill that is learned over time with practice. When we are not in control, it can be tempting to feel like we are powerless or that our bodies are out of control. However, the Bible teaches that we have the power to master our own impulses and emotions through the power of the Spirit within us. This means that we can choose to say no to sinful desires, even when it hurts, and to live a life that reflects Christian values and teachings.

When we are not in control, it can be helpful to remember that we are not alone in our struggles. The Bible teaches that we are all prone to sin and that our flesh is weak. However, this does not mean that we are powerless to change. Rather, it means that we need to rely on the power of the Spirit within us to guide us and give us the strength we need to live a life of self-control. This is not about trying to be perfect or to control our bodies through sheer willpower, but rather about learning to live in submission to God and to allow Him to have free rein over our lives.

Ultimately, the key to self-control is not about trying to control our bodies or our desires, but rather about learning to live in dependence on God. When we choose to live in dependence on God, we open ourselves up to a whole new level of joy and freedom. As John Ortberg says, "Limitless joy is available to us, not because we are in control, but because we are not in control." By surrendering our lives to God and allowing Him to have free rein over our spiritual formation, we can experience a level of self-control and freedom that we never thought possible. This is not about trying to be perfect or to control our bodies, but rather about learning to live in submission to God and to allow Him to work in our lives.