Bible Reading: Psalm 39; Rev. 1:11-20
“I said, I will take heed to my ways, that I sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle, while the wicked is before me.” – Psalm 39:1 (KJV).
New birth is the beginning of the journey of the believer in Christ, it is never the end. Christian growth will demand developing the fruit of the spirit which leads to character development. The unregenerate flesh seeks expression from time to time. The Christian should endeavour to put in check the members of the body in order to enjoy peace, joy and happiness in life. Failure to harness these members will put the believer in some forms of trouble, problem or danger with God and with the people. This could jeopardize the Christian’s testimony to the outside world or the relationship with other believers. The members of our bodies as small as they may appear could cause great damage or pose great danger if not checked.
Self control, which is one of the fruits of the spirit, entails harnessing ones thought by renewing the mind. It will require that we keep in check our eyes or sense of vision to control the tendency to lust after things or after the opposite sex. It involves managing of one’s emotion to avoid wrong actions or wrong choices. Self control will demand harnessing of one’s appetite to avoid gluttony or gullibility. It will also demand harnessing one’s mind to avoid distraction and maintain focus. “The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single thy whole body shall be full of light” – Matthew 6:22 (KJV). David made a commitment to take heed to his ways to keep his mouth with a bridle so he will not sin with his tongue. King Solomon highlights the need to watch ones word. “The wicked is snared by the transgression of his lips: but the just shall come out of trouble” – Proverb 12:13 (KJV). Apostle James teaches us to harness the tongue so we can reap good and pleasant fruits. “For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body” – James 3:2 (KJV).
A Christian who is able to exercise self control will be an effective witness for Christ in this evil and wicked world. Our society need to see Christians who live and speak like Jesus. This will be a powerful witness to sinners.
Prayer: Dear Lord, help me to exercise self control.