Sermon on Self-Control by Thulane: A Fruit of the Holy Spirit
Beloved Congregation,
Tonight, I invite you to turn your hearts and minds towards a vital aspect of our Christian walk—self-control, one of the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit. Let us reflect on Galatians 5:22-23, which proclaims, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.”
As we meditate on self-control, let us focus on its contextual meaning. Self-control is not merely the ability to set boundaries or to refrain from impulsive actions; it embodies total dependency on the Holy Spirit. It is about discerning right from wrong before we make critical decisions, take actions, or respond to life’s challenges—whether they are good or bad.
Apostle Paul emphasizes in verse 18, “But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.” This is a profound reminder: we cannot master self-control, nor any fruit of the Spirit, if we surrender to the desires of the flesh. Paul elaborates beautifully on this struggle, stating, “For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh; they are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do.”
This is a clarion call, beloved, to every follower of Christ. We must be led by the Holy Spirit so that we may exhibit the character and values of our crucified Savior through self-control, even amid trials and tribulations.
Let us take a moment to reflect on the great examples of self-control set before us by the matriarchs and patriarchs of our faith:
1. David and King Saul:
David had a unique opportunity to take vengeance on King Saul, who was pursuing him out of jealousy. In that moment, David relied on the Spirit of the Lord and chose the path of self-control over retaliation. How remarkable it is to see self-control manifest in a moment where power could have led to destruction!
2. Joseph and Potiphar’s Wife:
When Potiphar’s wife made advances towards Joseph, he displayed remarkable self-control. Empowered by the Spirit of God, Joseph fled from temptation rather than givng in. He discerned the path of righteousness over the fleeting pleasures that would have led him astray.
3. Job in Suffering:
Consider Job, who, after losing everything dear to him, faced the temptation to curse God as his wife suggested. Yet, he held firm. Job exercised profound self-control, understanding that God’s power is greater than the deceiver and the deceived, affirming that the true power lies in faith rather than despair.
4. Our Lord Jesus Christ:
Lastly, we turn to Jesus. After enduring 40 days and nights of fasting in the wilderness, He was tempted by the devil. Yet, He remained steadfast and unwavering, resisting every temptation. Why was this possible? Jesus is the Holy Spirit personified. He embodies and exemplifies all the gifts and fruits of the Spirit. He is indeed the Author and Finisher of our faith.
Finally
So, as we ponder these examples, we must ask ourselves: Why, in this modern age, do we struggle to show self-control? One reason may be that we often treat prayer and reading the Word of God as optional, relegating them to the margins of our lives. We must prioritize our spiritual disciplines, for it is through them that we cultivate our reliance on the Holy Spirit.
Let us commit ourselves anew to consistent prayer and reading of Scripture. Let us seek the Spirit’s guidance in every aspect of our lives, which will strengthen our ability to exercise self-control.
Thank you for allowing me to share this powerful Word with you tonight. May we all grow in self-control—a fruit that will not only strengthen us but also bless those around us.
In Jesus Christ’s name, Amen.
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