Self-control

Self-control is the quality of holding firm in our daily living to what we know to be right. It has a particular application in matters of sex – when Paul addressed Felix and Drusilla, both of whom had abandoned their previous marriage partners, he spoke candidly about “righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come” (Acts 24:25).

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The verb form is translated “strict training” (1 Cor.9:25) and being “self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined” are grouped together in Titus 1:8. In classical Greek it is the opposite of the way of life dominated by desire, and Paul likewise sees the lack of self-control as a characteristic of godless behaviour (2 Tim.3:5). Only through the help of the Holy Spirit can we hold our passions in check, coming under God’s control rather than being self-controlled.

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The fruit of the Spirit grows in us because in turning to Christ we “have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires” and instead we now live by the Spirit, keeping in step with him (Gal.5:22-25). God’s promise is that “his divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness... So make every effort to add to your faith... self-control” (2 Pet.1:3-8).