Child of God, you cannot simply dismiss your bad behavior by saying, “That’s just how I am.” To do that is to be unapologetic for the hurt or embarrassment you may cause to others. May self-control be one of your defining traits. Self-control not only of your temper, but also your tongue. Be careful not to act or speak rashly, especially in anger. Under the influence of anger, you will be tempted to display conduct very different from God’s righteousness. If Christ is in you, then so too must be self-control.
You may not believe me at first, but you are able to control yourself. Self-control is a fruit of the spirit, a gift within each of us, but one that must be mastered. To master self-control, you must be aware of how you feel and think about what is on your mind. You must consider what the outcome will be if you were to express your raw emotions, say what is on your mind, or continue to think about someone with malice in your heart. If the outcome is likely something that God would condemn, put an immediate stop to the thoughts or feelings that are leading you astray.
Whenever you have doubts about whatever you are doing or considering, stop it immediately. Your doubt is the Holy Spirit reminding you to do only what is right in the sight of God. If you are about to choose what is not pleasing to him, he will give you a sense of restraint, one which you must heed. Stay alert; keep your senses sharp before God. The body is weak; guard against its temptation with prayer, relying on God’s strength and giving him praise for his power to bless you with self-control.
Self-indulgence disgraces the Lord, for it was his self-sacrifice that gave you the promise of life. It also discourages other Christians who may be weak in their faith and look to you as an encourager. Pursue what is right and acknowledge Christ with your unselfish conduct. If you know how to do the right thing and choose not to, your sin is greater because of your knowledge. But if you conquer temptation and give yourself entirely to God, he will work mightily in you. Be aware of temptation at all times, and always deny yourself selfish or dishonest gains.
Please, do not think yourself able to resist temptation and carelessly expose yourself to it. One cannot both indulge in the deeds of darkness and wear the armor of light. Light represents truth, knowledge, and holiness. Darkness represents ignorance, error, falsehood, and sin. Darkness will keep you from being a productive Christian. Unholy behavior thrives in darkness, but the children of God need no hiding place. Love the Lord and let his light shine through you as you master your thoughts and actions. May you never lose an opportunity to represent Christ well because of your lack of self-control. Amen!
