Now more than ever, our world needs to see the fruit of God’s Spirit modeled in the lives of genuine believers. This fruit is the evidence of what’s going on inside of us, and is the proof of who we are in Christ. When our lives feel out of control, we need the fruit of self-control to help us get back on the right path for our lives. Self-control is the fruit of God’s power working in us, helping us to do what we should do - and really want to do - rather than what we shouldn’t do but often struggle with. Growing this fruit is essential to living the life God has always intended us to live: a life that is rich and fruitful.
Notes
Galatians 5:22-23 ESV
A self-controlled person is one who masters their desires and passions, especially their sensual appetites.
Proverbs 25:28 NLT
Romans 7:15-24 NLT
John 3:17 (Quoting NKJV)
We don’t live by our feelings, we live by our choices.
Romans 7:25-8:2 NLT
The fruit of self control is God’s power helping me make the right choices today, so I can have the life I want in the future.
Repent.
2 Corinthians 5:17 (paraphrased)
Fall in love with Jesus.
John 14:15 NIV
Commit to the lifestyle of a disciple.
Galatians 5:16 NIV
Guard against going back to my old way of living.
Vietnam story and James Clear quote are found in the book, “Atomic Habits.”
Matthew 5:29-30 (paraphrased)