Self-control

In 2 Peter 1:5-8, Peter gives us a framework for maturing in Christ. He commands us to add to our faith. I have been using this framework for a series of lessons at Monticello on Wednesday nights. Tonight, we covered self-control.

What is self-control? Let's skip the "control of self" answer, and dig a little deeper. It covers discipline, and the resistance of temptation (including avoiding the cookie aisle). Self-control is the restraint of one's emotions, impulses, and desires. It is mastery of one's self.

When we come to faith in Christ we are no longer our own. Jesus speaks of it in terms of losing and saving our lives. In Mark 8:35 he says, "For whoever seeks to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel's will save it."  Paul tells us, "Do you not know that your body is a sanctuary of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have from God? Your are not your own, for you were bought with a price. Therefore glorify God in your body" (1 Cor. 6:19-20, HCSB).

In 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, Paul uses the metaphor of a race to explain the self-controlled life. Here are some principles to guide us.

1. We need to set our mind to it. We are all in the race, and all the runners run.

2. We need to establish our priorities. As runners, we run the race to win.

3. We need to focus on what is gained. When athletes train, they give up a lot. But they do it to gain a prize. Paul says they run for a prize that fades, but we run for an eternal crown.

4. We need to work hard. We aren't called to run in circles in the faith, but to move with discipline. We are to master our bodies and souls, so that we can bring glory to God.

5. We need to fear failure. Paul said that he ran in a way that would keep himself from being disqualified. He didn't want to get to the end and see that it was all for nothing.

Self-control grows as we grow in our knowledge of Christ and the gospel. It grows as we exercise goodness and faith. We are commanded to exercise control over our emotions, impulses, and desires. We should instead be driven by the glory of Christ.