March 5, 2025

THE VIRTUE OF SELF-CONTROL (PART 3)

Apst. Emmanuel Osezele

KEY TEXT: PROVERBS 6:23 KJV: “For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life.”

AVOIDING SINFUL DESIRES:

Self-control helps us resist sinful desires of the flesh. The Bible warns against giving in to worldly passions and urges us to live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present world. "Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world" (TITUS 2:12 KJV).

THE ROLE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT:

The Holy Spirit plays an essential role in helping us develop self-control. When we walk in the Spirit, we are empowered to overcome the desires of the flesh and live according to God’s will. "This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh" (GALATIANS 5:16 KJV).

PATIENCE AS A FORM OF SELF-CONTROL:

Patience is a vital expression of self-control. It requires us to trust in God’s timing and remain steadfast in faith, even in challenging situations. "But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint" (ISAIAH 40:31 KJV).

PRAYER:

O Lord my God, have mercy on me, in any way I have charged you foolishly because of situations. Forgive me and grant me the grace to be patient and steadfast in times of challenges, in Jesus Christ’s mighty name. Amen.

REFLECTION:

HEBREWS 12:5-11 KJV: “And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him…..”