Add to Your Faith Part 2 - Self Control

Among the virtues Peter lists in 2 Peter Chapter 1, "self-control" stands as a crucial element in the believer's spiritual development. It follows "knowledge," suggesting that a true understanding of God's will and character "should" naturally lead to a disciplined life. Self-control, or temperance, (which is why we put strong stock in knowing your temperament), involves the mastery of one's desires, passions, and impulses, bringing them into alignment with the Spirit of God. This isn't merely about abstaining from negative behaviors, but actively managing one's thoughts, words, and actions in a way that honors God and reflects Christ-like character. It requires intentional effort and a reliance on divine power to resist temptations and cultivate godly habits. Taking our thoughts captive to the obedience of Christ and being transformed by the renewing of your mind are crucial disciplines that make genuine self control even possible.

I'm just going to say this right now to clarify something that many people think is true; that is that it's possible to muster up enough "will power" to do this or that including exercising self control... like "just say no to drugs." The "will" was given to us by God to exercise choice, not to have exclusive resident "power". What you choose will give you it's power. If I choose me as the source of power, I will have the "power" that I possess morally, intellectually, emotionally, spiritually, etc. If I choose God, to rely on Him for all these things, then I have His infinite power at my disposal, given by grace through the resident Holy Spirit to exercise self control. The choice is mine, every day.

Developing self-control is vital because it directly impacts a believer's ability to live out other virtues effectively. Without it, knowledge might remain theoretical, and perseverance can easily falter under pressure. Self-control empowers believers to say "no" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live "sensibly, righteously, and godly in the present age" (Titus 2:12). It is a continuous process and discipline of submitting one's will to God, allowing the Holy Spirit to transform inner desires leading to transformed outward conduct. This discipline enables believers to navigate the challenges of life with stability and integrity, preventing them from being swayed by fleeting desires or worldly influences. (The lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the pride of life.)

In Romans 7, Paul laments, "why do I keep doing the evil things I don't want to do?" He came to understand as reflected in Romans 8, essentially stating that if you walk in the Spirit, ( live in obedience to God's Word ), you will not fulfill the lusts and desires of the flesh. This accomplished by exercising self control when you add it to your faith.

The cultivation of self-control is a testament to the transformative power of God in a believer's life. It demonstrates that faith is not passive but active, producing tangible changes in character. As believers grow in self-control, they become more effective witnesses for Christ, reflecting His light in a world often driven by impulse and immediate gratification. This virtue also strengthens one's relationship with God, as it fosters a greater capacity for obedience and spiritual discernment. It is a necessary stepping stone on the path to godliness and brotherly kindness, ensuring that our actions are guided by Godly principles and character rather than selfish, worldly desires.

Sources: Original Content, NIV Bible, Gemini