Self-Control

“A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls.” Proverbs 25:28

“True self-control is not about bringing our selves under our own control, but under the power of Christ... Christian self-control is not finally about bringing our bodily passions under our own control, but under the control of Christ by the power of his Spirit.” John Piper

“But by the grace of God.” Those words hit me hard when facing a recurring area of weakness in my life. I was trying to fix it in my own strength—and failing miserably. The shame wasn't about unforgiveness (God forgives fully); it was the embarrassment of struggling with self-control as a believer. Then I remembered how Charlie Kirk has spoken about his own battles: realizing he's a sinner in desperate need of a Savior. Without God's grace, he'd be just as vulnerable to the same sins and struggles as anyone else in the world.

Grace is unmerited favor—God's free gift. As believers, we have that favor. Struggling with self-control? Don't white-knuckle it alone. Cling to Christ. We are nothing apart from Him. John 15:5 says it plainly: “Apart from me you can do nothing.” I've found that to be painfully true.

So how do we overcome? Abide in the vine. Sit at His feet every day. Go to the cross daily. Go to bed early so you can rise early and give Him the firstfruits of your day. Pour out your heart, listen in His Word, pray—let the Spirit produce self-control in you (Galatians 5:22-23). That's how a vulnerable life becomes a fortified city, protected by walls of God's strength.

If your quiet time has slipped, fight for it. Fight for time with Jesus. These last 11 years walking with Him have proven it: nothing transforms me more than abiding in Him.

How about you? Make the choice today. Have a great day resting in His grace!