2021 is upon us, and now well under way. New Year’s resolutions are a long-standing tradition, with many of us ushering in the month of January with goals and desires for the year ahead.
Unfortunately, I have never done particularly well with setting resolutions – or sticking to them. Because of this, I have tried to focus more on transformations. Rather than creating rigid and infallible rules, I am working toward improving portions of my life step by step, but with a LOT of grace.
As we circle back to the fruits of the spirit, we’ve yet to cover self-control. It’s a bit of a prickly topic, and one that can step on our toes because self-control is a gritty, minute-by-minute reality. And, quite frankly, it eludes mastery in this life.
Every waking moment, we are faced with decisions – decisions around what we eat or drink; how much we do (or do not) move our bodies; what we say or do; how we spend our time; who or what we allow to influence our thoughts and opinions; and the contents of our heart.
Honestly, it can be a little overwhelming, because our decisions and the moves we make create the building blocks that form our lives.
But, we weren’t meant to go at it alone. Fortunately, we have been given Spirit-led guidance that gives us wisdom for the long-haul.
For example, Paul shares in 1 Corinthians 9:25 (NIV), “Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.”
Paul speaks of the discipline that is required to excel when tested athletically in an earthly way. But, by practicing self-control through the wisdom provided by the Holy Spirit, we are choosing an eternal path.
In Romans 12: 1-2 (NIV), Paul also writes, “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God – this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then, you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
Friends, I never expect to have perfect self-control in this life, because I am an imperfect person. But, if I want to follow Jesus and love others well, I can make intentional steps and choose the next building block to guard my body, heart, mind and actions in the days ahead.
I also want to encourage you, in addition to looking to Biblical wisdom, to seek out a fellow believer to support you. I will pray for you on this journey. Will you pray for me as well?
Rooted in Grace and Grit 