Proverbs 25:28: Whoever has no rule over his own spirit is like a city broken down, without walls.
Insight
Self-control is ever important. This is the temperance of the New Testament. Paul made it his object to keep his body under, that thus he might make manifest the fact that he was not a reprobate or castaway. Lack of this control of himself sadly dishonored Noah, and that shortly after world-government had been committed to him. Moses, too, of all men the meekest, failed in self-government when angered at Meribah. May we have grace given to hold our spirits in godly subjection! Even when one is clearly in the right, nothing so prejudices his case as losing control of his temper, and uttering heated, hasty words. Remember therefore the importance of exemplifying in our words and ways “the meekness and gentleness of Christ.” 1
Application
Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified. 1 Corinthians 9:26–27
Is there anything that you’re currently doing that might cause you to become disqualified in your fruitful service for Jesus? Will you call upon Jesus for His help today? Will you honestly confess your struggle to Him? Will you ask for His empowering Holy Spirit to delivery you from you sinful entanglements?
Motivation
He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, And he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city. Proverbs 16:32
It is better to experience the Spirit-led life, instead of a life of carnality. – TWEET IT
Prayer
Father, teach me to flee the sin that so easily besets me.
1. Bridges, C. (2001). Proverbs. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books.
