OF SELF CONTROL (I)
“So when he heard that Lazarus was sick, he stayed where he was two more days, and then he said to his disciples, “Let us go back to Judea.”John 11:6-7 NIV
A key fruit of the Holy Spirit and a valuable lesson we learn from Jesus is self-control.
This virtue can only be achieved through the power of the Holy Spirit, as the natural inclination of the flesh is to follow its own desires. Jesus, however, possessed the power to do anything, and all authority in heaven and on earth was His. Yet, He chose not to act unless it aligned with the Father’s will and perfect timing. This serves as a powerful reminder for us as believers: Just because you have the ability to do something, doesn’t mean it’s the right time to do it.
In this passage, many may have criticized Jesus, questioning whether He truly loved His friend Lazarus, thinking He was indifferent. But in truth, Jesus only did what He saw the Father do (John 5:19). Disobedience is not only failing to act when God has called you to, but it can also mean acting prematurely, before receiving the full guidance and counsel from the Lord. Let the mindset of Christ be in you as well, so that your actions may bring glory to your Father in heaven. Hallelujah!
Prayer: Father, thank you for this wisdom. Through the power of Your Spirit in me, I am able to master my own spirit and act according to Your will. Help me to recognize opportunities that challenge my pride and make me more sensitive and obedient to Your refining work in me. In Jesus’ name, Amen!
CI.
RELATED RESOURCES
• John 5:19
• Proverbs 16:32
