"A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls."
Proverbs 25:28 (ESV)Every working system depends on a control center. Humans live among countless things competing for their time and attention, and we keep losing control of our own lives while trying to control others. Self-control is the management of our desires by the Spirit so that we can fulfill God's purposes. The first step is to name what is out of control, and for most of us it is our desires. A life centered on fleshly desires is a life out of control, as Adam and Eve discovered. "A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls" (Proverbs 25:28). A city without walls is open to every attack.
It is distressing to see a problem and feel helpless to fix it, but we are not left alone. Almighty God is the creator, sustainer, and controller of the universe, and He invites the weary to come to Him (Matthew 11:28). Jesus said, "Without me you can do nothing" (John 15:5), so we can never win the war against the flesh unless the Holy Spirit is in command. And grace is what makes this possible. "The grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives" (Titus 2:11-12). We practice self-control to fulfill God's purposes (Romans 11:36), not to earn His favor. No matter how far you have lost control, He can bring you back. Seek Him today.
Lord, I confess the areas of my life that are out of control. Put Your Spirit in command of my desires and my choices. Thank You that Your grace teaches me to say no to what is wrong and to live a self-controlled life that fulfills Your purposes. Amen.