Gaining Internal Control

One fruit of the Spirit the apostle Paul listed in Galatians 5:22-23 is self-control. Everyone struggles with self-control in some area of life ranging from an insatiable appetite to unwanted thoughts. Self-regulating is one of the most difficult battles Christians struggle with, for this issue sheds light on unresolved internal conflicts within each person.

Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit to help us with our infirmities and weaknesses. This does not mean he will remove them but will help us gain control over their power to hold us captive. One internal conflict is the impulse to give in rather than sustain a strong, vigilant battle against what plagues us.

God promises that “no temptation will seize you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will provide a way out so that you can stand against it and retain the joy of your salvation.”  

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It is an agonizing situation, and who can set me free from the prison of this mortal body? I thank God there is a way out through Jesus Christ our Lord.

~Romans 7:24-25 Phillips – The New Testament in Modern English