SELF-CONTROL

 By Edokpa Ephraim Eseohe

Introduction

Self-control is a compound noun which consists of two separate words “self” and “control” and in order to understand the compound meaning of the word “self-control”, it is pertinent to conceptually clarify the words separately.

Self

Self can be defined as the union of elements (body, emotions, impulses, thoughts, sensations, appetites, will, passions, desires, interests) that constitute the individuality and identity of a person.

Some words synonymous to self are flesh, ego and body.

The Bible outlined various characteristics of self in the passages below 

1. 1 John 2:16 KJV

For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.

2. Galatians 5:19-21a KJV

Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like.

Control 

Control can be defined as influence or authority over something.

Some words synonymous to control are power, discipline, ability, restraint, subjection and denial.

Therefore, self-control can simply be defined as the ability to control one’s desires and impulses.

Living A Life Of Self-Control

The probable reason why self-control comes last in the list as put forth by Galatians 5:22-23(ESV) is because after all is said and done, the other 8 fruit of the spirit can only be manifested effectively when one is able to exercise self-control. We can neither love properly, be joyful, peaceful, patient, kind, good, faithful and gentle when we have not learnt how to exercise control over self (pride, greed, anger, lust etc). This can be likened to Ephesians 6: 13b KJV

“…and having done all, to stand”.

After putting on the whole armor,  you have to stand. There is no essence in possessing the whole armor if you cannot or would not stand. Therefore, there is no need bearing all other fruit if you cannot exercise self-control. Self-control is so important that its lack hampers our God-ordained colorful destinies. Proverbs 25:28 (ESV) says “A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls”. One perfect example is Esau in Genesis 25. He lost his inheritance because he lacked self-control. 

The Issue 

The issue lies in the fact that the person of self and the person of the Spirit are always at war with each other - Galatians 5:17-18(ESV), Matthew 26:41b(KJV). This is because as humans, we were distinctly created with a body (which manifests self) and a spirit (which the Holy Spirit works on - Job 32:8 KJV).

The lyrics of a very popular Nigerian gospel song goes thus: “…whatever doesn't show your grace that is magnifying self in me…”.

This goes on to show that the person of self loves magnificence and manifestation.

The Remedy

It is important to note that to exercise self-control is to be Spirit- controlled because if the Spirit takes charge, then self is controlled. This is the very reason why self-control is a fruit of the Spirit.

The solution is further put forth in Galatians 5:16 KJV “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh”. 

Walking in the Spirit is keeping the body under subjection-discipline (Mark 9: 43-48 KJV, Romans 8:13 ESV). What Apostle Paul meant by keeping his body under subjection (1 Corinthians 9:27 KJV) is exercising self-control which can only be achieved by walking in the Spirit, and this walk is only possible by being led by the Spirit (Romans 8:14 KJV). How can we walk when we are not led? Another popular gospel singer put forth: “How can we walk when we don't know the way of the spirit?”

Conclusion

We should understand that “God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control” (2 Timothy 1:7 ESV). And since God has given us this spirit (fruit), then we must trust him completely and wholeheartedly. Proverbs 3:5(ESV) puts it this way “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding (self)”. Jesus said in Matthew 16:24 KJV “If any man will come after me (be led by the spirit), let him deny himself (self-control), and take up his cross (discipline), and follow me (walk in the spirit).

Question

Examine the biblical statement “the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak” in light of the concept of self-control

(Not more than 100 words) Avoid plagiarism!

Send answers to this Whatsapp number 07031096273

Deadline for submission: Wednesday, 3rd April 2024, on or before 3pm