Fruit of the Spirit: Self-Control

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
Galatians 5:22-23

Self-Control
Self-control is the ability to manage our emotions, desires and actions. This fruit of the spirit helps us to stay focused and choose what is right when faced with temptations and challenges. True self-control comes from relying on God’s strength, not our own. If we daily commit to align our actions with His guidance, we can control our reactions and live with greater purpose and clarity.

How can we practice self-control in our relationships? We can pause before speaking or reacting and choose patience and grace over anger and frustration. Our ability to control our impulses and reactions reflects God’s work in our hearts.

The fruit of the Spirit is a gift from the Holy Spirit, but it is up us to allow the Spirit to cultivate the fruit in our lives and use it to further Christ’s purposes in the world around us. As we grow in our faith, and grow closer to God, those qualities will become evident in our lives as we become more like Jesus and surrender to His will.

Last weekend I heard a beautiful worship song, New Wine, written by Brooke Ligertwood. I encourage you to listen to the whole song, but would like to use the chorus as a prayer to finish out the week:

Make me Your vessel, make me an offering.
Make me whatever You want me to be.
I came here with nothing but all You have given me.
Jesus, bring new wine out of me.
Amen.

Sue Wallace