Are You Self- Controlled?

If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. —Galatians 5:25

As you think about the issue of self-control, consider these questions:

• Do you have any recurring, besetting sinful habits or areas of life where you’re not free?

• Are you addicted to anything that’s not holy, healthy, or wholesome?

• Do you exercise self-control with your words, moods, and emotions?

• Are you self-controlled with what you eat, drink, and how you treat your body?

• Are you self-controlled with your time, entertainment, hobbies, and habits?

• Are you self-controlled with your spending?

• Are you self-controlled sexually? Do you possess your body in honor and purity (1 Thess. 4:3–4)?

In whatever parts of life you see a lack of self-control, name them to the Lord. Confess that these areas are not under His control but rather they are controlling you. Then pray, “Lord, by Your power, promises, and grace I surrender that area of my life—and every area—to the control of Your Holy Spirit.”