Hiding God’s Word – On Self-Control

“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you” (Psalm 119:11).

What Is Self-Control?

As I was searching for a way to frame this article about self-control, I ran across this quote from David Mathis at Desiring God Ministries. He says,

“Self-control — our hyphenated English is frank and functional. There’s no cloak of imagery or euphemistic pretense. No punches pulled, no poetic twist, no endearing irony. Self-control is simply that important, impressive, and nearly impossible practice of learning to maintain control of the beast of one’s own sinful passions. It means remaining master of your own domain not only in the hunky-dory, but also when faced with trial or temptation. Self-control may be the epitome of ‘easier said than done.’”^[1]

Why We Can’t Do It Alone

And how right he is! Self-control in our own power is an exercise in futility! But he goes on to say, “True self-control is not about brining our selves under our own control, but under the power of Christ.” This truth is evident in the fact that self-control is listed as a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Yes, God absolutely wants us to control ourselves, but He does not expect us to do it alone. He has graciously put the Spirit within us to guide us, strengthen us, and lead us to victory even over ourselves.

Scriptures to Memorize

So, choose a few verses from those listed below and hide them in your heart, memorize them so they will be readily available when you struggle to control yourself and your desires.

Proverbs 16:16 – How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather than silver!

Romans 12:1-2 – Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 – Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.

1 Corinthians 9:24-27 – Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.

Galatians 5:22-24 – But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

Philippians 4:8-9 – Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

Philippians 4:13 – I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

2 Peter 1:3 – His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.

Go Deeper

• Relying on The Constant Companionship of The Holy Spirit – Package Offer Video Download Full Series
• Inspiring Faith in Your Children and Grandchildren – Package Offer
• The Evidence for the Historical Jesus – Updated Edition

1. David Mathis, “Self-Control and the Power of Christ,” https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/self-control-and-the-power-of-christ, emphasis added. ↑