The Power Of Self Control.

“It is not for kings, Lemuel— Not for kings to drink wine or for rulers to desire liquor. Otherwise, they may drink and forget what has been ordained, perverting justice for all the oppressed.” Prov. 31:4-5.

In 328 BC. Alexander the Great, one of history's most powerful military leaders, was celebrating a successful campaign with his friends. During a night of heavy drinking, a drunken argument broke out between Alexander and his close friend Cleitus the Black, who had previously saved Alexander's life in battle. Enraged by Cleitus’s insults, Alexander grabbed a spear and struck Cleitus dead. The very next morning, sober and overwhelmed with grief, Alexander wept uncontrollably, wishing he could undo what his momentary lack of temperance had destroyed. Alexander conquered much of the known world, yet his greatest failure was his inability to conquer himself and his temper.

Temperance, often referred to as self-control, is the spiritual discipline of mastering one's desires, emotions, and fleshly impulses. Believers are called to cultivate it to protect their spiritual foundation, overcome worldly temptations, and reflect the transforming power of the Holy Spirit. 

Temperance is the ultimate test of your being a true believer. A believer who loses their temper or control over their appetites will inevitably destroy what they have worked to build. Temperance is not just human willpower; it is a direct fruit of the indwelling Holy Spirit. When a believer yields to God, the Spirit empowers them to exhibit self-restraint and godly character.

Unchecked desires and a lack of self-control leave a believer exposed to the attacks of the enemy. Temperance acts as a protective barrier, guarding the heart and mind against destructive habits and the subtle erosion of faith. 

Just as athletes undergo strict training to win a prize, Christians must discipline their bodies and minds. Temperance ensures that a believer stays focused on the race of faith, avoiding actions that could lead to spiritual disqualification. Believers are called to walk in the Spirit rather than gratifying the desires of the flesh. Temperance enables a Christian to say "no" to harmful worldly passions and fleshly lusts that war against the soul. 

FURTHER READING:

“Whoever has no rule over his own spirit is like a city broken down, without walls. Prov. 25:28.

“But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified. 1 Cor. 9:27.

DECLARATION: 

Dear Abba Father, I thank You for the gift of life and the privilege of salvation. Lord, I come before You seeking the virtues of temperance and good mannerliness. I ask for the grace to govern my passions, bridle my tongue, and keep my desires within honourable limits. Grant me the self-control to avoid excess in all that I do, and the wisdom to treat my body and mind as temples of Your Spirit. When I face temptation, frustration, or the urge to react hastily, help me to pause, breathe, and reflect the patient, gentle nature of Christ in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:

Isa. 38:1-22.

Isa. 39:1-8.

Isa. 40:1-31.

QUOTE FOR THE DAY:

“It's A Great Thing To Conquer Others It's A Greater Thing To Conquer Yourself And Your Appetite.”