THE POWER OF SELF-CONTROL
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Proverbs 25:28 – “He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.”
Supporting Texts: Galatians 5:22-23, 2 Timothy 1:7, Titus 2:11-12, 1 Corinthians 9:25-27, James 1:19-20
INTRODUCTION
Self-control is one of the greatest virtues that a believer must develop. It is the ability to master one's emotions, thoughts, desires, and actions, ensuring that they align with God’s will. Proverbs 25:28 compares a person without self-control to a city without walls—defenceless and vulnerable to attack. A life without discipline is exposed to destruction, just as a city without protective walls is open to the enemy’s invasion.
In today’s world, where temptations abound, the ability to restrain oneself from wrong choices is a mark of spiritual maturity. Whether in speech, anger, appetites, relationships, or emotions, self-control empowers believers to make choices that honour God. It is not about suppressing desires but about submitting them under the control of the Holy Spirit.
In this sermon, we will explore the importance of self-control, areas where it is needed, and how to cultivate it in our daily lives.
1. SELF-CONTROL IS A FRUIT OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
Self-control is not just about human effort; it is a result of walking in the Spirit.
a) Self-Control Is a Part of Spiritual Maturity (Galatians 5:22-23)
It is listed as one of the fruits of the Spirit, showing that it is a divine characteristic that must be developed.
b) God Has Given Us the Spirit of Discipline (2 Timothy 1:7)
Believers are not given a spirit of fear but of power, love, and self-discipline.
c) It Teaches Us to Say No to Ungodliness (Titus 2:11-12)
The grace of God empowers us to deny worldly passions and live righteously.
d) Without It, We Are Easily Led Into Sin (Romans 7:18-19)
Paul speaks of the struggle between the flesh and the Spirit, showing the importance of discipline.
e) Biblical Example: Joseph demonstrated self-control when he refused the advances of Potiphar’s wife, choosing to honour God rather than give in to temptation (Genesis 39:7-12).
2. SELF-CONTROL IN SPEECH AND ANGER
What we say and how we respond in anger can either build or destroy.
a) A Wise Man Controls His Words (Proverbs 10:19)
Too many words lead to sin, but a controlled tongue brings wisdom.
b) Be Slow to Speak and Slow to Anger (James 1:19-20)
Controlling emotions prevents words and actions that cause regret.
c) A Gentle Answer Turns Away Wrath (Proverbs 15:1)
Responding with self-control diffuses conflicts and fosters peace.
d) A Man Without Self-Control Is Easily Provoked (Ecclesiastes 7:9)
Anger rests in the bosom of fools, making them act unwisely.
e) Biblical Example: Moses lost control of his anger and struck the rock instead of speaking to it, which cost him entry into the Promised Land (Numbers 20:10-12).
3. SELF-CONTROL IN DESIRES AND APPETITES
Mastery over physical desires is necessary for spiritual growth and longevity.
a) Our Body Is the Temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
We must honour God with our bodies by exercising discipline.
b) Gluttony and Lack of Control Lead to Ruin (Proverbs 23:20-21)
Overindulgence in food, drink, and pleasures weakens self-discipline.
c) Run the Race with Self-Control (1 Corinthians 9:25-27)
Athletes train with discipline to win; believers must do the same for spiritual victory.
d) Those Who Live for Pleasure Become Slaves to It (Philippians 3:19)
When pleasure controls a person, they drift away from God.
e) Biblical Example: Esau lost his birthright because he could not control his appetite, choosing food over his divine destiny (Genesis 25:29-34).
4. SELF-CONTROL IN THOUGHTS AND EMOTIONS
What we allow in our minds influences our actions and spiritual health.
a) Take Every Thought Captive (2 Corinthians 10:5)
We must guard against negative and ungodly thoughts.
b) Do Not Be Conformed to the World (Romans 12:2)
Renewing the mind through God's Word helps in self-discipline.
c) Think on Things That Are Pure and Noble (Philippians 4:8)
Focusing on godly thoughts strengthens self-control.
d) Emotions Must Be Submitted to the Spirit (Galatians 5:16-17)
Feelings should not dictate actions; the Spirit must lead.
e) Biblical Example: David exercised self-control when he had the chance to kill Saul but chose not to act out of impulse (1 Samuel 24:4-7).
5. HOW TO DEVELOP SELF-CONTROL
Self-control is cultivated through discipline, dependence on God, and intentional actions.
a) Surrender to the Holy Spirit Daily (Romans 8:13-14)
Only through the Spirit’s empowerment can we consistently walk in self-control.
b) Pray for Grace to Overcome Temptations (Matthew 26:41)
Jesus taught that prayer is necessary to resist the flesh.
c) Discipline Yourself Through the Word of God (Psalm 119:9-11)
The Word renews the mind and strengthens resolve against sin.
d) Practice Delayed Gratification and Self-Denial (Luke 9:23)
Denying the flesh strengthens the spirit for greater victories.
e) Biblical Example: Daniel exercised self-control by refusing to defile himself with the king’s food, choosing a disciplined life that honoured God (Daniel 1:8).
CONCLUSION
Self-control is a crucial virtue that every believer must cultivate. Without it, a person is vulnerable to sin, emotional outbursts, and spiritual failure. It is not merely about suppressing desires but about bringing them under the lordship of Christ.
A life led by self-control brings stability, strength, and a closer walk with God. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, prayer, and constant renewal of the mind, we can develop self-discipline in every area of life. As we yield to God’s control, we will experience victory over sin, mastery over emotions, and success in our spiritual journey.
PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, grant me the grace to develop self-control in every area of my life.
2. Father, help me to guard my tongue and control my words.
3. Lord, give me victory over the desires of the flesh that war against my spirit.
4. Father, empower me to take control of my thoughts and emotions.
5. Lord, help me to walk daily in the power of the Holy Spirit.
