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Short Clip
SELF-CONTROL is defined by the Greek Dictionary as “a virtue, which consists in the mastery of the appetites and passions, especially the sensual ones.” The only force that can control or flesh is the Holy Spirit. When yielded to Him we become vessels that are worshipful sacrifices to Him, and no longer to self. Self cannot control self. The flesh is not able to harness flesh. Only the Spirit can discipline us for godly living (Titus 2:11-13).
Personal checkup question: Do I lead a disciplined life or an undisciplined life? Would others think of me as graciously under the control of God’s Spirit? Am I beating under and giving knockout blows to my flesh like Paul was in I Cor. 9:27? Does it seem like God is taking over more and more of my life, my attention, and my schedule?
These nine reflections of God are produced by His Spirit in every part of our lives surrendered to Him. So, look inside, are these nine reflections of God present in your daily life? Are these manifestations of God’s control growing?
WE NEED THE SPIRIT’S POWER SO WE CAN FOLLOW GOD
Look back in Galatians 5:16. This is how the fruit of the Spirit is introduced. Note how v. 16 and v. 25 together form a frame around this section, describing the fruit of the Spirit, and the fruit of the flesh.
We are to actively follow the Lord—inviting the working of the Holy Spirit in our lives by reading the Word, praying, and obeying His will.
Galatians 5:16 I say then: Walk…
(present, active, imperative—lit. keep constantly walking)
We are to walk in the Spirit. And if we do that, look what verse 16 says
… and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.
Now, look at verse 25—
If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
So our body is His abiding place, we are to walk in Him.
It is my duty to say no to anything that will shut off the valve of the Holy Spirit’s working in my life.
It’s my job to make sure that nothing constricts Him, so that nothing stops the flow of the Spirit in my life.
Ephesians 5:18 And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled (present passive imperative) with the Spirit,
So is the unbelievable life of walking in the Spirit’s power possible? Yes, for all who will surrender on a daily basis to allow God to keep us full of His Spirit, His power, and His presence.
Living & walking in the Spirit’s fullness is attainable, and it is ours for the asking.
The only catch is that we must prevent the valve of the Spirit’s flow to not get shut off, little-by-little, by the Unforsaken sins of Ephesians 4:25-29.
There is an old hymn: All to Jesus I Surrender, that can help us invite God to change us by His Spirit, a little more every day.
Please join me, and make these words a prayer of consecration to God today.
Stanza 1: All to Jesus I surrender, All to Him I freely give; I will ever love and trust Him, In His presence daily live. Chorus: I surrender all, I surrender all. All to Thee, my blessed Savior, I surrender all.
Stanza 2: All to Jesus I surrender, Humbly at His feet I bow, Worldly pleasures all forsaken; Take me, Jesus, take me now.
Stanza 3: All to Jesus I surrender, Make me, Savior, wholly Thine; Let me feel Thy Holy Spirit, Truly know that Thou art mine.
Stanza 4: All to Jesus I surrender, Lord, I give myself to Thee; Fill me with Thy love and power, Let Thy blessing fall on me.