Thank you Ebony for your beautiful post on self-control last week. This is a fruit of the Spirit that we desperately need operating in our lives daily, so I wanted to add my thoughts.
In moments of frustration when we are tempted to speak, self-control is needed. When you are facing a stressful situation, take a moment to pray before you open your mouth. Do not allow yourself to be tempted to act on impulse. Back away from the situation. I like to “sleep on it.” Things always look different after a good night’s rest.
Many of us struggle with self-control daily. We face challenges dealing with lust and pleasing our flesh. For some it is a matter of overspending. We become greedy, searching for things that will satisfy our flesh and bring the contentment we crave.
It is important that we exercise self-control over every area of our lives. We must watch what comes into our heart, mind, and body. We must be careful about what comes out of our mouths. Think before you speak is a good rule of thumb. Once we put our words in the atmosphere they cannot be recalled.
Allow the Holy Spirit to lead and control every area of your life. We do this by focusing on our Lord. When we sense anger, frustration, stress, discontentment or anxiety we must turn our attention back to God and to His Word. What does the Word of God say about our attitude and how we should react to others? Proverbs 15:1 “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
Scripture Source: http://biblehub.com/niv/proverbs/15.htm
Dr. Evelyn Johnson-Taylor