Self Control in Defense of our Testimony
Self Control in Defense of our Testimony
Dr. Spencer R. Fusselman
In the heart of every great martial artist lies a powerful force: self-control. It's the ability to harness one's emotions, thoughts, and actions, to channel them into something purposeful and positive. This same principle, though often overlooked, is a cornerstone of Christian discipleship.
Self-control is the ability to manage our emotions, actions, and thoughts. It involves letting our mind control our body rather than the other way around. This concept is crucial for developing a character that reflects Christ. As discussed, our thought life determines our actions, which in turn shape our behavior and character. Self-control isn't merely about resisting temptation or denying ourselves pleasure. It's a deeper, more profound virtue, rooted in the character of God Himself. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Galatians, paints a vivid picture of this virtue as one of the nine fruits of the Spirit: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law" 1 (Galatians 5:22-23).
Self-control is the ability to manage our emotions, actions, and thoughts. It involves letting our mind control our body rather than the other way around. This concept is crucial for developing a character that reflects Christ. As discussed, our thought life determines our actions, which in turn shape our behavior and character. Self-control isn't merely about resisting temptation or denying ourselves pleasure. It's a deeper, more profound virtue, rooted in the character of God Himself. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Galatians, paints a vivid picture of this virtue as one of the nine fruits of the Spirit: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law" 1 (Galatians 5:22-23).
Against such things there is no law...
The apostle Paul, in his profound epistle to the Romans, illuminates a fundamental truth: the law of God is inscribed upon the human heart. This intrinsic knowledge of right and wrong, a moral compass, is a testament to the divine nature of humanity. It's as if God has etched His law into the very fabric of our being, a universal standard that transcends cultural and societal boundaries.
This innate understanding of morality is evident in the universal condemnation of actions such as murder, theft, and adultery. People from all walks of life, regardless of their religious beliefs or cultural backgrounds, recognize these acts as inherently wrong. This shared moral consciousness is a powerful witness to the existence of a higher law, a law that originates from the divine mind.
The fruits of the Spirit, as outlined in Galatians 5:22-23, are in perfect harmony with this universal law. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control are virtues that are universally admired and respected. They are the embodiment of a righteous life, a life that reflects the character of God.
It is remarkable to note that no man-made law can contradict or diminish the value of these virtues. They are eternal and immutable, transcending the shifting sands of human opinion and legislation. This fact provides a compelling argument for the Christian faith. By appealing to the inherent moral sense of others, we can point them to the source of all righteousness: Jesus Christ.
When we share the gospel with others, we are not merely presenting a set of theological doctrines; we are appealing to the deepest part of their being, the part that knows right from wrong. By highlighting the beauty and power of the fruits of the Spirit, we can awaken their hearts to the truth of God's Word.
In the heart of every believer lies a battleground - a constant struggle between the desires of the flesh and the leading of the Spirit. A battle between desires and discipline, impulse and intention. This internal conflict, this struggle for self-mastery, is a universal experience. It’s the difference between the person we aspire to be and the one we often find ourselves becoming. One of the most potent weapons in this spiritual warfare is self-control. It is the ability to master our thoughts, emotions, and actions, aligning them with God's divine will. As we are exhorted in scripture “ We destroy every proud obstacle that keeps people from knowing God. We capture their rebellious thoughts and teach them to obey Christ.” (2 Corinthians 10:5). Martial arts teaches the disciplines of self-mastery over the body. Yet, when self-mastery over the body is wielded alongside the transformative power of God’s word, it becomes a powerful tool for spiritual growth and effective ministry.
Self-control isn't merely about denying ourselves pleasure; it's about embracing a higher purpose. It's about choosing the path of righteousness, even when it's difficult. It's about prioritizing spiritual growth over fleeting gratification.
It's important to remember that self-control is not simply a human achievement, but rather a divine gift. We cannot cultivate it on our own strength. It requires the empowering work of the Holy Spirit within us. As we yield our lives to Christ, we can tap into the limitless power of the Spirit to help us overcome temptation, develop self-discipline, and live a life that honors God.
In the martial arts, we train our bodies to respond instinctively to threats and challenges. Similarly, as Christians, we must train our minds and hearts to respond instinctively to the promptings of the Holy Spirit. By practicing self-control daily, we can grow stronger in our faith and better equipped to face the challenges of life.
As we embark on this journey of self-mastery, let us remember the words of the apostle Paul: “For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love, and of self-control.” (2 Timothy 1:7) The Holy Spirit, the divine indwelling within us, empowers us to overcome our weaknesses and cultivate the strength of character necessary to live a victorious life in defense of our testimony.
This innate understanding of morality is evident in the universal condemnation of actions such as murder, theft, and adultery. People from all walks of life, regardless of their religious beliefs or cultural backgrounds, recognize these acts as inherently wrong. This shared moral consciousness is a powerful witness to the existence of a higher law, a law that originates from the divine mind.
The fruits of the Spirit, as outlined in Galatians 5:22-23, are in perfect harmony with this universal law. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control are virtues that are universally admired and respected. They are the embodiment of a righteous life, a life that reflects the character of God.
It is remarkable to note that no man-made law can contradict or diminish the value of these virtues. They are eternal and immutable, transcending the shifting sands of human opinion and legislation. This fact provides a compelling argument for the Christian faith. By appealing to the inherent moral sense of others, we can point them to the source of all righteousness: Jesus Christ.
When we share the gospel with others, we are not merely presenting a set of theological doctrines; we are appealing to the deepest part of their being, the part that knows right from wrong. By highlighting the beauty and power of the fruits of the Spirit, we can awaken their hearts to the truth of God's Word.
In the heart of every believer lies a battleground - a constant struggle between the desires of the flesh and the leading of the Spirit. A battle between desires and discipline, impulse and intention. This internal conflict, this struggle for self-mastery, is a universal experience. It’s the difference between the person we aspire to be and the one we often find ourselves becoming. One of the most potent weapons in this spiritual warfare is self-control. It is the ability to master our thoughts, emotions, and actions, aligning them with God's divine will. As we are exhorted in scripture “ We destroy every proud obstacle that keeps people from knowing God. We capture their rebellious thoughts and teach them to obey Christ.” (2 Corinthians 10:5). Martial arts teaches the disciplines of self-mastery over the body. Yet, when self-mastery over the body is wielded alongside the transformative power of God’s word, it becomes a powerful tool for spiritual growth and effective ministry.
Self-control isn't merely about denying ourselves pleasure; it's about embracing a higher purpose. It's about choosing the path of righteousness, even when it's difficult. It's about prioritizing spiritual growth over fleeting gratification.
It's important to remember that self-control is not simply a human achievement, but rather a divine gift. We cannot cultivate it on our own strength. It requires the empowering work of the Holy Spirit within us. As we yield our lives to Christ, we can tap into the limitless power of the Spirit to help us overcome temptation, develop self-discipline, and live a life that honors God.
In the martial arts, we train our bodies to respond instinctively to threats and challenges. Similarly, as Christians, we must train our minds and hearts to respond instinctively to the promptings of the Holy Spirit. By practicing self-control daily, we can grow stronger in our faith and better equipped to face the challenges of life.
As we embark on this journey of self-mastery, let us remember the words of the apostle Paul: “For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love, and of self-control.” (2 Timothy 1:7) The Holy Spirit, the divine indwelling within us, empowers us to overcome our weaknesses and cultivate the strength of character necessary to live a victorious life in defense of our testimony.
Life Application
This week, take a moment to identify areas where you need to exercise more self-control. Whether it's in your thoughts, actions, or emotions, ask the Holy Spirit to help you grow in this area. Reflect on these questions:
1. What specific steps can I take to improve my self-control?
2. How can I incorporate more discipline into my daily routine?
3. In what ways can I rely on God's strength rather than my own?
By focusing on these areas, you can develop a stronger character and live a life that truly reflects the fruits of the Spirit.
1. What specific steps can I take to improve my self-control?
2. How can I incorporate more discipline into my daily routine?
3. In what ways can I rely on God's strength rather than my own?
By focusing on these areas, you can develop a stronger character and live a life that truly reflects the fruits of the Spirit.
Recent
Archive
Categories
no categories
1 Comment
Thank you for taking the time to seek Gods will, to hear his voice and mentor and minister to my family and our community. May God continue to provide vision on your journey and favor in your walk with him. We appreciate you and your wife and this dojo. ???