Ever notice the similarities between 1 Peter 1:5–7, and Paul’s list of the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–25)?
They both use the word self-control as one of the abilities Christians have when they are submitted to the Holy Spirit. Peter describes it as a divine power from God, and Paul describes it as “keeping in step with the Spirit.”
If you look up self-control in their language, it’s defined as “restraint of one’s emotions, impulses, or desires.” It’s a compound word, grouping “in” and “strength/power.” The idea is “in control.” It’s even translated as “temperance.”
Do you ever lose your temper? Do you ever say something you later regret? Do you ever get so frustrated that you react in a way you wish you didn’t?
Self-control is the ability that God gives us to keep things in check.
As I reflected on the word, I started to ask, “isn’t this just behavior modification?” This could be understood as a form of religious legalism.
So I asked the question, “what’s the difference between self-control and legalism?”
You find the answer is in the motive (also see Sermon on the Mount). Both share the exact same discipline, the same pursuit, but they have different motives.
The motive for self-control is love, the motive for legalism is pride and acceptance. One is joyful and brings freedom, the other is arduous and leads to arrogance or despair.
There’s a lot more to say about this, but I encourage you to reflect on your own self-control as you pray and search the Scriptures.
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Jack