Self-Control (The Fruit of the Spirit in You)

Self-Control                                                                          Day 100

¹² For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. ¹³ Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

Ephesians 6:12-13

Many kids and teenagers struggle with discovering and establishing their own identities. While developing their identities, they encounter pressures from peers and friends. These friends typically splinter off in various directions as they grow older. Meanwhile, parents hope and pray that as their children become more independent, they will choose to go along with their positive peers. Parents also desire that their children remember the lessons taught at home once they are on their own and being tested.

As believers, we have opportunities to reveal that we have embraced the teachings of our Heavenly Father. We face choices of whether to stand firm on His Word or to conveniently adopt common beliefs which we know do not align with His Word. Each of us can establish our identity as a follower of Christ or as someone who supports principles contrary to Christ. Whether by taking a stand on an issue or by simply conducting ourselves like Christ, we can reveal to the world on whose side we stand.

As we recognize our free will, acknowledge our legal opportunities, or even defend our legal rights, let us not allow our lives to endorse behaviors that contradict Christ. Let us resist temptations to follow popular opinions that forsake the ways of Christ. While we love others in word and deed, let us learn to stand against principles that are contrary to our God.

See more at www.thefruitinyou.com