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

Self-Control                                                                            Day 98

Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.

Mark 14:38                 Matthew 26:41

How many times have we promised to begin doing something we believed to be good? Whether to eat better, exercise more, or even to get more rest, we often recognize positive changes that we can make in our lives. Conversely, there are also times that we commit ourselves to never doing something again. Indeed, many Christians have temporarily broken from the addictions of their eyes, hearts, bodies, or mouths, but find themselves once more overcome by temptation. Though willing and full of good intentions, we often encounter our weaknesses in the midst of our efforts to progress forward.

Jesus prescribed a simple formula for victory over our weaknesses - “watch and pray.” For some, “watch” may mean to “watch out” for the triggers that come in various forms such as certain old friends, books, magazines, websites, restaurants, or emotional vulnerabilities. Let us not forget that when we pray and remain focused, we can maintain self-control. We can keep our minds on the One who will give us strength and guide us away from the pull of our weakened flesh.

Just like the disciples in Mark 14:38 (Matthew 26:41) who grew weary when they were physically present with Jesus, we too may struggle with the things that tempt us. We will have victories and defeats. However, let us continue to watch and pray for Christ’s guidance, so that we may have self-control and strength through Christ.

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