Self-control is one of the Fruits of the Spirit – and with good reason. When we choose to live a life of discipline, we are free to experience the very best, both in this world and with its Creator.
“That aim in life is highest which requires the highest and finest discipline.” – Henry David Thoreau, 19th century author
A couple of months ago, I had surgery on my esophagus. I’ll save you the nitty-gritty details and just say that it wasn’t working as it should and was creating damage. The surgeon fitted a titanium bracelet around it so that it will work better in the future.
I have always loved food, and it’s easy to say that when it comes to self-control, this area was a major struggle. I would eat too much, too fast, and too often.
However, that is no longer an option. For the first time ever, I not only should develop self-control in this area, but I have no choice.
I can no longer eat a lot in one sitting. And when I do eat, I can only swallow a teaspoon at a time. Period.
I needed to develop self-control in this area. At first, I was not happy about this. I mean, who would be? No gobbling Doritos or second slices of cheesecake? No more McDoubles while driving?
But what I learned was that the self-control I developed didn’t limit me as I feared. It freed me to live an even fuller and better life.
How self-control frees us to live a better life
Food is a pretty superficial way to talk about self-control, but honestly, can’t we all relate? We all eat, and most of us love what we eat. I figure this is a pretty approachable topic.
So let me tell you what I learned from the new lifestyle this surgery has placed upon me.
When we let go of what we consider freedom – that is, the willingness to do whatever we want when we want to – we experience real freedom.
Instead of the constant pushback from our somewhat ill-advised choices, now we choose based on what we need, rather than what we want.
Which do you enjoy more – the first bite of steak or all 24 ounces? Which do you like better – watching your favorite TV show or binge watching whatever you find in your Netflix queue?
Do you like unending possibilities (no, really) or do you like a few great choices?
God never intended you to have free rein without any self-control. That lack of discipline in a fallen world like ours opens us up to pain, hurt, and sin. Instead, He offers us discipline and boundaries, so we can be free to live fully in what we need and without excess.
I learned that I love chocolate tarts more when I savor each small bite. That I like lots of butter on my pancake, even if I’m only eating one. I learned that I can eat the very best now because I’m not eating my weight in it. There is no guilt, only freedom to choose the best of what God has created.
We can live freely in the space God has given us, using the self-control we were blessed with, to enjoy life to the fullest.
Won’t you join me in thanking God for our spirits of discipline?
Have a blessed Monday!
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