Self-control is not a popular subject, but it is an invaluable trait that we all need to develop as God’s children.
Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city. Proverbs 25:28 (NIV)
The Kingdom of God operates with patience and self-control. The Lord has been merciful and patient with humanity, and He has restrained Himself from judging the earth before time. God sent Jesus to this world to take on the human form, so He can save the world from sin and unrighteousness.
Patience and self-control were the hallmarks of Jesus’ ministry on this earth. He continually showed patience and self-control with those who did not believe Him. In turn, the Lord wants His children to develop patience and self-control. Patience and self-control go hand-in-hand. We cannot have patience apart from developing self-control, and if we are not patient with ourselves, we can easily get discouraged with our lack of self-control in certain areas of life. As the above verse reminds us, taking a city might be impressive to the worldly system, but ruling and subduing our passions and desires is much more valuable in the Kingdom of God.
Sometimes we think of self-control only in the areas that we should avoid sin. However, self-control is critical in many areas of our lives such as getting an education, starting a business, becoming a good parent, learning a new skill, etc. Furthermore, our process of spiritual growth requires us to be patient with ourselves and exercise self-control, so we can stay faithful in our walk with God.
Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control. Proverbs 25:28 (NIV)
The above verse brings sobriety to the issue of self-control. In the old days, the walls of a city were its protection from the enemies, so a city could not be easily attacked and taken over. We see an example of this in the account of Joshua and the Israelites when they came to Jericho. God tore down the walls of Jericho as the people marched around the city for seven days and worshipped Him. Those walls were not penetrable by man, but the Lord intervened on their behalf.
Similarly, as we develop self-control, we are erecting fortified walls that protect us from being affected by the outside influences. Self-Control guards us against distractions, discouragements, anger, and offenses, so we can stay steady and strong under pressure. That is not a simple task, but we must start somewhere and challenge ourselves to do better than we have in the past.