Fruit of the Spirit: Self-Control
(Galatians 5:22-23)

I. Self-Control and God
A. God is sovereign and in control of all things. (Ephesians 1:11; Philippians 3:20-21)
B. God’s wrath is His controlled and righteous anger against sin. (Psalm 7:11; Romans 1:18, 2:5, 9:22)
C. Jesus demonstrated perfect self-control. (Hebrews 4:15)

II. Self-Control, Temptation and Desire
A. Temptation attacks you through your old sinful desires. (James 1:13-15)
B. The Holy Spirit gives you new and right desires. (Galatians 5:16-18)
C. Part of self-control is setting your mind on what the Spirit desires. (Romans 8:5-7)

III. Growing in Self-Control
A. Practice self-discipline. (Proverbs 25:28; 1 Corinthians 9:24-27; 2 Peter 1:5-6)
B. Beware of addictions. (John 8:32; Galatians 5:1)
C. Don’t give in to anger or fear. (James 1:19-20; 2 Timothy 1:7)
D. Ask God to develop the fruit of self-control in your life (Titus 2:11-12)

Affirmation: I will grow in self-control as I allow the Holy Spirit to subdue my desires.

Application: Exercise self-control in an area where you normally struggle to be self-controlled.