"SELF-CONTROL"

Today I wish to speak on the topic of self-control. The Word of God describes self-control as the ability to regulate one's own actions and feelings.

How well are you doing in this department, are you making high quality choices in all areas? May I suggest that it's not enough to disavow sin and evil yearnings; - we ought to carry out aggressive spiritual warfare daily. I myself have always been what one might call an effervescent christian. An athlete works out daily or at lest on a predetermined schedule. We are told in the book of Phil 2:5 " Let this mind be in you, which was also in Jesus Christ".

It's so easy to succumb to temptation, to look at what's not appropriate, or to listen to any conversation that is ungodly. To commit sin and say, I'll ask for dispensation later is wrong headed.

I'm reminded of the apostle Paul when he went up against Felix the Roman Governor or Procurator of Judea. Paul had come before Felix to answer the Jews' accusations. I for one am so overawed at Paul's ability to present the gospel message through his defense. We should always be looking for an opening to present the Word of God at all times. Remember that God uses ordinary people so be prepared. Paul's appeal to Felix became so personal that the governor was feeling trepidation, and rightly so as he had taken another man's wife. It's been my experience and most likely yours that many people will be in full agreement to discuss the gospel with you. Just as soon as the conversation touches their lives on a very personal level, they squirm like a fish to get off the hook. The Bible warns us of these vices, as we neglect God and others when we indulge in: Sexual immorality(Galatians 5:19); Impurity(5:19); Passion(Colossians 3:5); Enmities(5:20); strife(5:20); Jealousy(5:20); Anger(5:20); Disputes(5:20); Dissensions(5:20); arrogance(2 Corinthians 12:20); Envy(5:21); Murder(Revelation 22:12-16); Idolatry(5:20; Ephesians 5:5); Sorcery(5:20); Drunkenness(5:21); Carousing(Luke 5:13; Galatians 5:21); Fraud(1 Corinthians 6:8); Adultery(1 Corinthians 6:9-10); Homosexuality(1 Corinthians 6:9-10); Coveting(1 Corinthians 6:9; Ephesians 5:5); Stealing(1 Corinthians 6:9-10); and Lying(Revelation 22:12-16).
Please work hard on your self-control issues as your life depends on it. Another scripture comes to mind " Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." (James 5:16)

Until Next Time Stay Focused.

Jim