Adding Self-Control to Your Bag

"But the fruit of the Spirit is... self-control."- Galatians 5:22-23 
  
Self-control is one of the most challenging fruits of the Spirit to cultivate, yet it is incredibly important for our spiritual growth and daily lives. It’s easy to think of self-control as simply managing our reactions or sticking to certain rules, but it goes much deeper than that. Adding self-control to your spiritual bag means mastering yourself, regardless of what happens around you.

Self-control isn’t just about controlling your impulses or behaviors, it’s about exercising discipline and restraint in every area of your life. It’s about not allowing your emotions, like anger or frustration, to dictate your actions. Too often, people justify a lack of self-control based on external circumstances or the behavior of others. We might say, “I couldn’t help it, they pushed my buttons,” or “I lost my temper because of what they did.” But true self-control isn’t contingent on external factors. It’s a matter of internal discipline.
 
When the Bible talks about self-control, it’s referring to a state of being where you are in command of your actions and reactions, irrespective of the situation. It’s a fruit that reflects your ability to act in accordance with God’s will, even when you’re provoked or under pressure. This means choosing not to react in anger, resisting the temptation to indulge in harmful behaviors, and making decisions that honor God.

Cultivating self-control requires intentional effort and reliance on the Holy Spirit. It’s about setting boundaries, being aware of your triggers, and choosing to respond with grace and patience, no matter what. When you add self-control to your spiritual bag, you’re committing to a life of discipline and self-mastery that isn’t swayed by the storms of life.
 
So, is self-control the area where you need growth? Reflect on how you handle difficult situations and your responses to the actions of others. Are there moments when you lose control and then justify it based on external circumstances? Ask God to help you develop this vital fruit of the Spirit.  

When you add self-control to your spiritual bag, you’ll find that it strengthens your character and deepens your relationship with God. In every situation, regardless of what happens around you, self-control will enable you to honor God and maintain a Christ-like demeanor.