Why Self-control?

Galatians 5:22-23 (KJV)
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, [23] Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

The same Judith who attempted taking her own life because of depression and rejection from friends later became a successful teacher, motivator and a co-owner of a Foundation for the depressed, where she taught by the power of the Holy Spirit.

One very important evidence that shows that a child of God is now mature and ready to be entrusted with the true riches of the Kingdom is self-control. When you can’t control yourself, you cannot lead others. In Luke 16:10, Jesus says you must be faithful in little for you to be entrusted with more. Your ability to control yourself is the first little test that you must pass before God can entrust the lives of others to you.

“When you are converted, strengthen your brethren” was Jesus’ counsel to Peter in Luke 22:32 and in Galatians 4:1-2 we see that as long as the heir remains a child although the rightful owner of all, there is no difference between him and the servants. He is put under governors who will help him govern his life until he reaches maturity and can govern is own life by himself. You see, ownership and leadership is given to those who have learned to govern themselves.

You may never be able to possess your possession unless you are self-controlled.

That unpleasant experience, that irritating neighbor, that nagging spouse, and those other things that get you so easily offended may be your own test. You can be free from being controlled by things and happenings around if you will let the Holy Spirit help you control yourself.

Go into today knowing that you will not lead others well unless you’ve learned to lead yourself well.

Lord, help me walk in self-control and possess my possessions fully.
—Dr. Emmanuel James

Source: Devotional