Thinking About Self-control - Commentary

As we gather today, let us turn our hearts to a vital fruit of the Spirit: self-control. In Galatians 5:22-23, the Apostle Paul lists self-control alongside love, joy, and peace, showing us that it is not merely about restraint but rather the flourishing of life in the Spirit. This self-control is a sober gift, empowering us to govern our desires and decisions with grace.

Imagine a gardener tending to a young fruit tree. Each day, the gardener waters it and prunes the branches, shaping its growth. The gardener knows that without careful attention, the tree may grow wild and unproductive. Similarly, our spiritual formation requires us to cultivate self-control. It is about choosing to align our hearts and minds with God’s purpose, allowing His love to guide our actions.

Consider the reality of our daily lives. Each moment presents a choice—whether to react in anger, to indulge in distractions, or to respond with patience and love. Self-control is the ability to pause and reflect, allowing the Spirit to guide our responses. It invites us to step into our God-given purpose, to love our neighbors well, and to embody the agape (unconditional love) that Christ modeled for us.

So, as we seek to grow spiritually, let us embrace self-control as an act of love—both for ourselves and for others. When we exercise this fruit, we reveal the transformative power of the Holy Spirit at work in us, opening the door to deeper relationships, greater purpose, and ultimately, the abundant life that God promises. Let us lean into this gift, trusting that it will bear fruit in our lives and our community.