Broken Self-Discipline
Self-Control is a Byproduct – Part 2
Scripture Reading: Galatians 5:16-26
Key Verse: Galatians 5:22-23
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
In yesterday’s devotional, I finished up with the Apostle Paul’s challenge: Stay in step with God’s Spirit. In the original Greek language, Galatians 5:25 would have a literal translation like this: If we would be fresh, strong, efficient in life, direct one’s life by the source of power within you—God’s Spirit.
I would think that every believer would want to live their daily lives just like that. The question becomes: How? In my opinion, it starts with a daily time alone with God where we can give Him full permission to direct us. I usually know of meetings that I’m going to have that day, so I talk to God about them. I ask for His wisdom and discernment.
Another daily discipline I participate in is reading a few verses out of the Bible. The major way God speaks to us is through the Bible. The Bible’s wisdom guides the decisions I make in my daily work. The Bible reminds me how to create and maintain healthy relationships with those around me. The Bible corrects me when I allow my flesh to pull me off track. The Bible rebukes me when I cross lines in integrity issues.
These two daily habits have slowly built my self-control muscles up. The Bible’s truths fill my mind and God’s Spirit in me gives me strength to live those truths. Heal your broken self-discipline with God’s tools of prayer and scripture!
Father, I don’t want my lower nature to guide my life today. I want your Spirit in me to have total control. I will listen and obey! In Jesus’ name, amen.