Due to audio issues, there is no recording for 8/1.  We hope to have this resolved in coming weeks.

Self-Control

Introduction

Self-control is about warfare. A conflict with in.

Remember how Paul sets up the fruit in Galatians 5:16:

“But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please.”

Let’s look at two images given in Proverbs to learn about self-control:

1. What is self-control?

​He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty,

​And he who rules his spirit better then he who captures a city.  16:32

It is the ability to choose the most important thing over the urgent.

It is the wisdom to be ruled by principle versus feeling or impression or appearances.

2.  How do we grow in this grace?

Prov. 25:28:

“Like a city whose walls are broken down, is a man who lacks self-control.”

Wisdom says, think of your heart as a city.  Three questions arise from the image:

1.  Who is king in the city? Who rules your heart?

Christians believe in a king who will rule you better than you rule yourself.

2.  How does the Spirit keep your heart strong?