I have seen many people in my life who lack self-control (NIV) or temperance (KJV). It is one of the fruits of the Spirit and affects every aspect of your life.
Galatians 5:22–23 (NIV) –
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”
Self-control isn’t just willpower—it’s evidence of the Spirit at work in us. God calls us to be in control of our tongue (what we say), our mind (what we think), and our body (what we do).
Sowing and Reaping
I’ve seen people without self-control, also known as self-discipline. Some couldn’t control their anger and became verbally or physically abusive. Others lost control of their thought life and fell into perversion and immorality.
“Sow a thought, reap an action.
Sow an action, reap a habit.
Sow a habit, reap a character.
Sow a character, reap a destiny.”
This is based on the biblical principle of sowing and reaping.
Control Over the Body
When people don’t have control over their bodies, they can become obese or anorexic. They might not exercise or care for their health, becoming weak and unable to function properly. Some fall into addiction or alcoholism because they don’t control what they put into their bodies. We have to remember our bodies are the Temple of God.
Control Over Words
It is important to think before you speak. God warns us not to gossip or backbite. Scripture tells us to listen more than we speak. Hurtful words can sometimes hit harder than a physical blow.
Proverbs 17:27–28 (NIV) –
“The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint,
and whoever has understanding is even-tempered.
Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent,
and discerning if they hold their tongues.”
It’s better to be thought of as a fool than to open your mouth and remove all doubt.
Control Over Thoughts
Mental illness is a big topic today. I do believe many people experience real trauma and mental challenges. But sometimes, the issue is not illness, it’s a lack of self-control over emotions and thoughts.
Philippians 4:8 (NIV) –
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
What you focus on shapes who you become. Every choice you make affects your life—positively or negatively—and often affects your family and friends as well.
Let God Take Control
God wants to be in control of your life. He asks for your whole heart, mind, soul, and body.
Titus 2:2 (NIV) calls older men to be “temperate, worthy of respect, self-controlled.”
Temperance implies a lifestyle of steady moderation that fosters long-term wisdom and stability.
There have been many times in my life when I couldn’t see a way out of a bad situation. But when I placed it in God’s hands and let Him take control, I was amazed at how He directed my steps and worked all things together for good.
Self-Control in Daily Life
Peer pressure and social norms can test our self-control. For example, some say, “To do my job, I have to drink.” Or to fit in a social setting” But there are many leaders in government and business who have never taken a drink.
I’m not saying that having a drink is always wrong, but if you lack self-control, then for you—it may be wrong.
You also need control over your money. If you spend more than you earn, you’ll fall into debt. If you gamble or fail to give tithes, you’re not being a wise steward. God calls us to be faithful managers of the resources He entrusts to us.
And you need self-control with your family—to be faithful to your spouse, and to raise your children with love and discipline. Without self-control, you may become abusive if you can’t manage anger or patience, or you may become overly lenient, failing to teach your children boundaries and self-control in their lives.
Final Thoughts
Self-control touches every area of life—spiritual, mental, emotional, physical, financial, and relational. It is not something we can achieve in our own strength. It is a fruit of the Holy Spirit, developed as we yield ourselves to God daily. Scripture says we are to know them by the fruit and self-control they have in their lives.
When we let God’s Spirit rule in us, our actions, words, and thoughts begin to align with His will. And through that, we not only change our destiny—we reflect Christ to the world.
