Self Control Week 4

As I write this devotional, my mind goes back to the first eight Fruits of the Spirit which are: Love, Joy, Peace, Forbearance, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness and Gentleness.   

As I review the first eight Fruits of the Spirit, I believe each one is interconnected and leads us to the last one, which is self-control.  I ask the Holy Spirit to instill all these qualities into my daily life, so I am better prepared to handle each and every situation that may arise. 

 As I pray about what I want to write, my mind is everywhere. I really never thought how this last Fruit of the Spirit envelopes everything we do every day.  

I ask myself the question, am I portraying self-control daily?  I must be honest, sometimes I’m not.  I can become frustrated, angry and sharp tongued.  How do I implement self-control in my daily life? 

First and foremost, I try to quiet my mind and my heart, I step away for a moment, take a breath and pray to the Lord to help me respond with grace and patience.  I know this is very difficult to do when an issue arises unexpectedly.  All I ask is that you try it.  He will be with you and give you the grace and patience you need.  Over the years He has taught me to pause and look toward Him.  He is still teaching me this every day.  (Sometimes I can be a little obstinate)  

 As I grow in wisdom, knowledge, obedience, and allow God to lead me, I have experienced more love, peace and joy than I can comprehend.  Always remember to go to Him first and He will be right beside you.  He will guide you and give you the understanding needed in any situation. 

2 PETER 1:5-6 

For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness, and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. 

PROVERBS 25:28 

Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control