Self-Control

Peter knew how easily we can be distracted, wasting time and energy in pursuit of the wrong goals. Because of this concern, he wrote about the significance of thinking clearly and exercising self-control. This was particularly important as he thought about “the return of Jesus Christ.” Without self-control, we can “slip back” into bad habits and “old ways.”

Many people, then and now, find it hard to exercise self-control. For example, according to a recent study, 44% of Americans say they do not have time to be organized. These people waste time searching for their keys and other common household items. The irony is that “those who are the most organized spend considerably less time looking for lost belongings.” These people have self-control.

Without self-control, circumstances can dominate our schedules. Our priorities can become confused, and we can become distracted. We can fail to accomplish God’s purposes and miss out on His blessings.

The Bible makes clear that God wants us to “think clearly and exercise self-control.” This means living according to His principles and making His Word our foundation. This also means surrendering to Him and remembering that self-control is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:23). We need the power of the Spirit to have real self-control.

In your life, don’t be ruled by your schedule or the tyranny of events. Seek to be filled with the Spirit and led by the Spirit. Ask Him to give you self-control. Remember: God has planned abundant blessings for you. Don’t miss out! Declare His promises to be true. Put them into practice. Expect great things!