THE STRUGGLE FOR SELF-CONTROL
GALATIANS 5:23
INTRODUCTION: “The first victory that successful people ever achieve, or win is the victory over themselves.” (John Maxwell). This is the last sermon in this series. Today, let’s wrap up by talking about “self-control.”
I. Let’s Explain
The word here is “enkrateia”. This comes from the word “kratos” which means to be strong or strength. Plato described it as self-mastery. It means to have power; to get a hold of; to get a grip on. Get your hands on something until you are in control. A simple little illustration of driving a car would service well here – steering wheel/gas pedal/brakes. You control the speed and direction of that machine.
II. Let’s Expose
All of us have certain areas of life not under control. There’s no discipline. We need to get a hold of and a grip on these areas. Why? Because that which is uncontrolled can bring heavy harm and plenty of pain. What areas are people dealing with? Here’s just a sample.
A. Sex
B. Speech
C. Spending
III. Let’s Explore
Look at I Cor. 9:24-27. In that passage look at Paul’s purpose (v.24). Look at his pain (v.25). Beat means to give a knockout punch. He would not let the appetites of the body ruin his ministry. Look at his presenting. Also see Rom. 12:1-2; 2 Tim. 2:15. Look at his process. It was ongoing. What does Paul teach us? Take responsibility for your personal life. The most innocent people on God’s green earth are in prison! Most of them always blame someone else.
IV. Let’s Express
These ideas were borrowed from author James Maxwell.
A. Start with yourself We all would like to start with someone else. O.L. Moody was once asked, “Of all the people you come in contact with, who gives you the most trouble?” He replied, “O.L.Moody!” There was a sign on an office door that read, “If you could kick the person responsible for most of your troubles, you wouldn’t be able to sit down for weeks.”
B. Start early Build your character before you build your career. You can’t dog it in spring training and expect to be the MVP of the World Series.
C. Start small Where does one start? Start with the area that’s most defeating. Start with what hurts the most. Identify one or two areas and start there. Remember, it’s a cinch by the inch but a trial by the mile.
D. Start now John Hancock said, “All worthwhile men have good thoughts, good ideas and good intentions, but precious few of them ever translate those into action.
CONCLUSION: Self-control is really control under the Spirit. Ask God for His help.
