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. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Galatians 5:22-24 NIV

DEVOTION

Why is control so important to so many of us? If we are in control, then all will work out, right? We begin to look at what we can truly control—only ourselves—which leads to the fruits of the spirit found in Galatians 5:22-24.

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. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.  

Self-control is defined as the ability to manage our actions, feelings, and emotions. More specifically, what do I need to control to be an example of Jesus for others: words, tone, response, reaction, emotions, facial expressions, and body language.

This takes daily intentionality and we cannot do this alone. We can do this only by Jesus’ strengthening us (Philippians 4:13). We can’t do anything without Christ’s help, and he even tells us, “apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:5).

We have to believe that God loves us and is for us and surrender to HIS will. So, what does it really look like to surrender? It might be waking up every day and dedicating your day to his will, not your own will. It might involve a daily ego check: is this of God, or of the world? One of my favorite definitions of EGO is Edging God Out. Where do I find myself doing this?  

Paul tells us in Philippians 2:13, “For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.”

Research tells us that whatever we feed ourselves, we become. If we listen to things of this world, we become worldly. If we feed ourselves his Word, we become more like him. What are we feeding ourselves? God’s Word or social media? Do we feel worthy or are we struggling with FOMO (fear of missing out)

If self-control involves our words, let’s use them wisely. 1Thessalonians 5:11 tells us, “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” How can we accomplish that daily as Jesus did? Recognize others for the good you see in them daily. Verbally appreciate others and point out their value and gifts.

Finally, self-control involves our actions, reactions, and responses. Actions speak louder than words. We can say something nice, but if our facial expression is not congruent with our words, the words we speak are useless. Let’s ask God for how he sees us responding to others. Are we responding in love or fear?

If we are yielding to God, abiding in his Word, and striving to live a life pleasing to him, self-control will come more easily with God’s help. We can do nothing apart from him (John 15:5).

PRAYER

Father,

What a blessing you are to us daily. Thank you for your unconditional love despite our brokenness, egos, and selfishness. Help us to live according to your Word and purpose and not the things of this world. Make clear our path, help us to see our blind spots, and help us recognize what fruit you want us to produce. Give us the awareness we need to have self-control and love others well. Bless our days so we can shine brightly for you!

Amen. 

Lyn Watson

Executive Director

lwatson@crossings.church

Lyn Watson is Executive Director of Crossings Community Church. 

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