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The Art Of Self-Control - July 08, 2006
"So think clearly and exercise self-control." I Peter 1:13
In the 1960s, which was considered the hippie generation within the United States, there was a popular phrase, "If it feels good, do it!" Obviously, this was a message promoting instant gratification, minus worry of the probable consequences. Today, many people affirm this is the "me" generation. In other words, everything is about the individual's needs, whims and desires.
At a glance, these may sound like very suitable life philosophies, but let us keep in mind that what society may deem popular is not always what God considers appropriate.
You may ask, "Whats wrong with satisfying a desire of mine? After all, am I not worth it? I see no reason to deprive myself of what makes me feel good!"
Quenching healthy desires is a very good thing, but it is the feeding of poison in to our minds, bodies and spirits that ultimately brings sickness and risk of death to our souls. For example, a vile of heroine may bring temporary nirvana, but most wise individuals understand why it is best to leave such substances alone.
Unfortunately, satan is such a clever deceiver that not all things which are a danger to us are so clearly marked. Consider the married husband or wife who has a bit too much to drink at a night club, and is seriously considering an extra-marital affair with the stranger flirting with them. Their mind and body might be saying, Go for it! It will feel great, and what your spouse doesnt know wont hurt them." But the reality is that the sin of adultery will hurt not only God and your own spiritual welfare, but there will be a negative effect within your marriage. This is just one of many examples that things are not always as they seem.
As the above Bible verse portrays, it is best for us to think clearly (soberly and using godly wisdom) and to practice the art of self-control. The ability to refuse and turn away from those things unhealthy and harmful to our minds, bodies and spirits, is not about deprivation, but rather about protecting ourselves and our loved ones. It is the wise and mature person who understands the beauty in the word "no".
"No, I will not go on a date with you because I am married!"
"No, I will not try those drugs because I prefer to be healthy and in control!"
"No, I will not commit that crime because it is illegal and simply wrong to steal what I have not earned honorably myself!"
Yes, my friends, sometimes it is necessary in life to say a firm "No".
Other times, such as when considering our acceptance of Christ into our Lives, it is good to say Yes!
Contributed by Melanie Schurr (Copyright (c)2005 Melanie Schurr) Melanie Schurr is author of "Ecstatic Living: A Christian marriage manual and Life-guide", "Son Salutations" and "Daily Contemplations", which are a collection of read-one-a-day modern inspirations. For more information, visit www.MelanieSchurr.com
"So think clearly and exercise self-control." I Peter 1:13
In the 1960s, which was considered the hippie generation within the United States, there was a popular phrase, "If it feels good, do it!" Obviously, this was a message promoting instant gratification, minus worry of the probable consequences. Today, many people affirm this is the "me" generation. In other words, everything is about the individual's needs, whims and desires.
At a glance, these may sound like very suitable life philosophies, but let us keep in mind that what society may deem popular is not always what God considers appropriate.
You may ask, "Whats wrong with satisfying a desire of mine? After all, am I not worth it? I see no reason to deprive myself of what makes me feel good!"
Quenching healthy desires is a very good thing, but it is the feeding of poison in to our minds, bodies and spirits that ultimately brings sickness and risk of death to our souls. For example, a vile of heroine may bring temporary nirvana, but most wise individuals understand why it is best to leave such substances alone.
Unfortunately, satan is such a clever deceiver that not all things which are a danger to us are so clearly marked. Consider the married husband or wife who has a bit too much to drink at a night club, and is seriously considering an extra-marital affair with the stranger flirting with them. Their mind and body might be saying, Go for it! It will feel great, and what your spouse doesnt know wont hurt them." But the reality is that the sin of adultery will hurt not only God and your own spiritual welfare, but there will be a negative effect within your marriage. This is just one of many examples that things are not always as they seem.
As the above Bible verse portrays, it is best for us to think clearly (soberly and using godly wisdom) and to practice the art of self-control. The ability to refuse and turn away from those things unhealthy and harmful to our minds, bodies and spirits, is not about deprivation, but rather about protecting ourselves and our loved ones. It is the wise and mature person who understands the beauty in the word "no".
"No, I will not go on a date with you because I am married!"
"No, I will not try those drugs because I prefer to be healthy and in control!"
"No, I will not commit that crime because it is illegal and simply wrong to steal what I have not earned honorably myself!"
Yes, my friends, sometimes it is necessary in life to say a firm "No".
Other times, such as when considering our acceptance of Christ into our Lives, it is good to say Yes!
Contributed by Melanie Schurr (Copyright (c)2005 Melanie Schurr) Melanie Schurr is author of "Ecstatic Living: A Christian marriage manual and Life-guide", "Son Salutations" and "Daily Contemplations", which are a collection of read-one-a-day modern inspirations. For more information, visit www.MelanieSchurr.com
