Pause & Reflect
The Fruit of the Spirit ends with self-control. That placement is significant. The Spirit's work does not make us less responsible for our choices. It increasingly enables us to govern desires rather than being governed by them. Self-control says: I can feel angry without saying everything anger wants to say. I can desire something without automatically taking it. I can feel an impulse without obeying it. I can want another portion and still stop. I can want to send the message and decide to wait. I can want to purchase something and choose not to. Freedom is not doing everything you feel like doing. Sometimes freedom is discovering that an appetite no longer owns you.
Declare It Today
“Through the Holy Spirit, my desires do not have to control me. I can pause, choose wisely and bring my appetites under the lordship of Christ.”
Let's Pray
Holy Spirit, develop self-control in me. Show me where impulses have gained too much authority and strengthen me to choose what honours God rather than what provides immediate gratification. Amen.
Continue Exploring Bible Hub
Read Scripture, discover devotionals, follow reading plans and more.