Bulletin Articles
Self-Control
In keeping with the series from II Peter chapter 1, we see in verse 6 that Peter tells us to add self-control to our faith.
This is a vital part in our foundation of faith and is constantly being tested each and every day. The question we should consider is if we are not controlling ourselves, who is?
In Romans 6:12-14 Paul told the saints in Rome, “Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, to make you obey its passions. Do not present your members to sin as instruments for unrighteousness, but present yourselves to God as instruments for righteousness. For sin will have no dominion over you, since you are not under the law but under grace.”
When we read God’s word there is a call for control. In Titus 2:2-6 Paul explains that the older men, older women, younger women, and younger men all need to be taught self-control. Now you can choose which category you fall in, but the result is the same. We must constantly train ourselves to try and master this attribute.
We have the responsibility to control our desires, actions, thoughts and ultimately our behavior. This requires discipline on our part. With this discipline and always gaining knowledge by constantly drawing near to him we can build up our faith into a defense against these worldly desires.
Overcoming these temptations ultimately makes us stronger Christians and enhances our focus on the things God would have us do. This includes presenting ourselves to be a good and acceptable example ready and willing to teach and spread his word.
Although self-control is only one attribute among the long list in II Peter 1:5-7, verse 10 reminds us that if we do all these things we will never stumble. Furthermore, verse 11 says, “An entrance will be supplied to you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” That should be all the inspiration we need to do our best to conquer this achievable trait.
