The importance of self-control suggests that it’s a critical character trait that everyone should strive to develop, more so, if you’re a believer. Today we will know why self-control is so important.
» Tuesday, 10th January 2023 | I Stand In The Gap Daily Devotional | the Importance of Self-Control
Yesterday’s daily devotional theme was “thwarting the evil plans of Ahithophel“ and today’s is about the importance of self-control.
“He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty,
Proverbs 16:32
And he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.”
Our anchor verse suggests that it is better to have control over your own emotions and actions than to be physically strong or to have power over others. This encourages us to work on developing self-control, and in doing so, to be mindful of our reactions to challenging situations.
Background
Proverbs 16:32 is one of many wise sayings, that were compiled by king Solomon and other wise men, which were meant to impart wisdom and practical guidance to the people of Israel, and by extension all believers.
It throws light on the importance of understanding the value of self-control and applying its principles in our own lives.
Reflection
On daily basis, the onus rests on the believer to be reminded of self-control. It suggests that we should have control over our faculties, emotions, and actions than be physically strong and use that strength anyhow.
To me, it’s a verse that encourages us to work on developing disciplined self-control and to be mindful of how we react to challenging situations.
In our current Christian dispensation, self-control is:
- A valuable virtue that can help us to navigate the many demands and challenges that we face.
- It can help us to resist temptation and to make choices that are in line with our Christian values and goals.
- It can also enable us to respond to difficult situations with grace and restraint, rather than reacting impulsively or carelessly.
As we seek to grow in self-control, we can draw strength and guidance from God’s Word and from the power of the Holy Spirit.
We can also seek the support and accountability of trusted friends and mentors, and pray for wisdom and discernment in making decisions. By developing self-control, we can better honor God and serve others in our daily lives.
Remember, your example is Jesus. He was always calm even in the face of harsh treatment.
Similar Verses on the importance of self-control
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.
Galatians 5:22-23
- This verse lists self-control as one of the fruits of the Spirit, indicating that it is a characteristic that should be evident in the lives of every believer.
“A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls.”
Proverbs 25:28
- This verse compares a person without self-control to a city without walls, which can easily be overtaken by enemies – suggesting that self-control is necessary for protection and security.
“But self-controlled and sober-minded, for the sake of the faith of God’s elect and their salvation.”
Titus 1:8
- Titus 1:8 encourages believers to be self-controlled and sober-minded in order to remain faithful to God and to support the salvation of others.
May all believers today ask God to imbue in us the spirit of self-control so that we may be able to live our lives as people who have been called.
Let’s Pray for self-control
Dear Father,
Thank you for your Word and for the wisdom it provides. Today, I am reminded of self-control and its importance as we read Proverbs 16:32. “He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.“
Lord, I know that self-control is not always easy. There are times when my emotions and desires can feel overwhelming, and I struggle to reign them in. There have been multiple instances when I just can’t control the rush of adrenalin.
But I also know that you have given me the gift of the Holy Spirit and that through him, I can have the power to overcome those challenges.
I plead that you help me to remember that self-control is a fruit of the Spirit, and I ask for your help in cultivating it in my life.
I pray that I will be slow to anger, and may I learn to rule my spirit, rather than allow it to control me. Help me to make choices that honor you and serve others, and resist temptation and impulsive reactions that bring dishonor to your holy name.
Thank you for your grace and your love.
I pray this in the mighty name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
