"The Doers, Self-Control" Devotional

Welcome to this devotional based on LMA Episode 4, “The Doers, Self-Control”. In this time of reflection, we dive right into the last fruit of the Spirit mentioned in Galatians 5, self control! As you engage with these questions, scriptures, and practical applications: we encourage you to have a journal and your Bible handy! There are sentence stems below to support you in your processing if needed.

Self-Control: Walking in Step with the Holy Spirit

There is a distinct difference between behavior modification and true transformation. In our human capacity: we are able to modify our speech, actions, and behaviors. But within our limited human strength: we are incapable of changing our soul’s desires, capturing every single thought, or transforming our very nature. 

Only the Spirit of God is capable of transforming our hearts and rejuvenating our souls. Walking in  the Spiritual fruit of self-control is the epitome of living a life more abundantly. 

Take a moment to thank God for the gift of the Holy Spirit, as well as His self-control, which enables you to live a life of fullness and freedom.

“Control of self” Our own doing or the Holy Spirit’s doing?

Your true self is hidden within Christ, so the very act of self-control is only applicable through the capabilities of the Holy Spirit. Be reminded that you are not the one that is responsible for doing the work, “for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.” (Philippians 2:13-ESV). Your job is to rest in His Presence and seek Him through prayer & application of His Holy Word, He is the One that is doing the transformation within you.

Meditate on Colossians 3:3

“For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.” (ESV)

Transformation by the Renewal of our Minds

Read & reflect on Romans 12:2:

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (ESV)

Are there any thought or behavioral patterns in your life that are contrary to the truth of God’s Word? If so, identify them, write them down, and say a prayer to God surrendering these patterns to Him. In doing so, you are submitting to Christ and enabling your true self (which is hidden in Christ) to walk in the fruits of the Spirit.

Practical Application: Mind-Renewal Activity

1. With the list of thought/behavioral patterns that you wrote down from the previous section, take time to search the Word of God for His Truth concerning these patterns (using a search engine as a resource to find the Scriptures is an option).

2. Categorize the areas or dimensions of your life that these patterns exist (Spiritually, physically, socially, creatively, professionally, mentally, emotionally, etc.) 

3. For each pattern, write down a Scripture that speaks truth over it.

Example

Thought pattern: “I’m awkward in social settings so I’m afraid to put myself out there to talk to others.” 

Biblical Truth: “for God gave us a spirit NOT of fear but of power and love and self-control.” (2 Timothy 1:7)

1. Declare God’s Truth over every one of these patterns and areas of your life and thank Him for His Truth.

        ***Bonus Step***

Record yourself audibly speaking His Word over each of these areas of your life.

Closing Question & Prayer

“How am I experiencing life more abundantly when I am walk in the fruit of self-control? How does walking in self-control help others around me to experience life more abundantly?

In your own words, say a prayer to the Lord. Thank Him for Christ’s sacrifice on the cross that allows for our true selves to be hidden within Him, thank Him for the beautiful work of the Holy Spirit, ask Him for abundance of His self-control, and submit all areas in your life to Him.

God bless, my friend.

Scripture Reference: 

Colossians 3:3 (Timestamp- 4:45)

Romans 8:6 (Timestamp- 6:03)

Galatians 5:22-23 (Timestamp- 7:03)

Romans 12:2 (Timestamp- 10:00)

Romans 10:17 (Timestamp-13:43)

Hebrews 4:12 (Timestamp- 13:45)

John 1:1-3 (Timestamp- 17:24)

Proverbs 23:7 (Timestamp- 18:27)

Hebrews 12:2 (Timestamp- 19:33)

Psalm 1:2-3 (Timestamp- 27:30)

2 Timothy 1:7 (Timestamp- 31:32)

Romans 7:15-20 (Timestamp- 34:28)

Matthew 16:24 (Timestamp- 38:14)

Galatians 5:17 (Timestamp- 38:43)

Matthew 5:43-48 (Timestamp- 40:42)

Luke 18:18-19 (Timestamp- 41:28)

1 Peter 5:8 (Timestamp- 45:01)

James 1:22-25 (Timestamp- 47:51)

2 Corinthians 3:18 (Timestamp- 50:35)

2 Peter 1:3-7 (Timestamp- 51:25)

Proverbs 18:21 (Timestamp- 58:40)

Deuteronomy 28:13 (Timestamp- 1:00:35)

2 Corinthians 10:5 (Timestamp- 1:04:42)

Proverbs 25:28 (Timestamp- 1:06:40)

Jude 1:24 (Timestamp- 1:09:22)