The Battle for Self Control

By: Keefe Wilson

Saturday, February 22, 2025

A person who does not control his temper is like a city whose wall is broken down. Proverbs 25:28 (CSB)

In childhood, my "sweet tooth" was out of control and often landed me in trouble. I wanted to obey my parents, but I just couldn't resist anything sweet. It was a constant battle for self-control, one that I usually lost. One evening as we finished dessert, my parents sternly warned me, "No more sweets tonight." But later that evening, an uncontrollable craving for sweets woke me. Once again, I was in the familiar battle for self-control. I knew it was risky, but I snuck into the kitchen anyway... I quickly grabbed some cookies and began cutting a piece of chocolate cake. But when I turned around, my mother was waiting with a belt in her hand. I got the worst spanking of my life, all the way back to my bedroom. I cried myself to sleep, learning a loss of self-control has consequences.

A challenge all Christians face is the battle for self-control. It's a relentless battle, but God wants you to know you aren't alone in this struggle. He is with you every step of the way, offering you His strength and guidance.

When Proverbs 25:28 compares a lack of self-control to a city with broken walls, it means we are vulnerable to enemy attacks and susceptible to temptation. We must never allow our emotions to dictate our actions. Self-control is a fruit of the spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) given by God, and it is essential for Godly living. Self-control means exercising restraint and control in various areas of life, including our thoughts, words, actions, and desires.

To win the battle for self-control, stay rooted in prayer. As you pray, ask God for the strength to resist temptation. Ask Him to give you control over your desires, your contentment, and the wisdom to make godly choices. Next, get in God's Word and meditate on a few scriptures. It will renew your mind and strengthen your ability to choose wisely. Rebuild those "broken city walls" by setting up boundaries and avoiding situations that might lead you to sin. Lastly, fully rely on the Holy Spirit, He is your helper.

...be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined. Titus 1:8

Does any part of your life seem out of control? Are you controlling your attitude, temper, eating habits, and words? Do you struggle to control your spending, drinking, or sexual desires? Remember, you're not in this battle alone, God is with you and fighting for you!

Self-control is a vital part of Christianity! Honor God by living your life upright, holy, and disciplined.