Success OR Failure: Engage Self-Control!

Self-control determines our success or failure. Many individuals are tempted to give up when engaging in powerful habits and tempting distractions, blaming their lack of willpower to stay focused and faithful. Self-regulating is a difficult test Christians will encounter in their walk with Christ Jesus.

 

Listen to Romans 7:21 as the Apostle Paul struggles with self-control: “It seems a matter of fact that when I want to do what is right, I predictably do what is wrong. I love to do God’s will; but there is something within me that is at war with my mind and makes me a slave to sin." Does this mean he lacked the strength to resist?

Evidently not. Paul also declared, "I press on toward the goal to win the prize of the high calling in Jesus Christ."  Yes, it took endurance and self-regulation which were imperfect, but still he stayed focused on God’s purpose for him. The fruit of the Spirit is self-control, so engage it each moment of each day as you seek God’s purpose for yourself.  

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For when the way is rough, your patience has a chance to grow. So let it grow and don’t try to squirm out of your problems. For when your patience is finally in full bloom, then you will be ready for anything, strong in character, full and complete.

~James 1:3-4 The Living Bible

Persevere: God Will Deliver!

We can’t always know what drives a person to keep striving for solutions to problems when none appears possible. How do you acquire perseverance, the strength of character that doesn’t give up or give in to failure? Thomas Carlyle noted, "Perseverance is the hinge on which all virtues swing." A virtue is defined as a high standard of conduct and morality. 

 

          In researching the Biblical account of Jacob, Leah and Rachel, Leah is in the worst position. Her husband does not love her. She must compete with her sister Rachel for Jacob's attention. Still she persists in having his children, striving for Jacob’s love and acceptance.

          Leah didn’t choose her station in life. Someone else chose for her, but she refused to be ruled by it. Perhaps you know what it means not to be loved as you would like to be loved. Yet, you must stay where you are, for there is no other choice. Remember this: God does not close his eyes or forget the plans he has for you. So, persevere and wait. God will deliver on his plan for you.