Why we need to exercise self-control

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 a man running aimlessly: I do not fight like a man beating the air.” 1 Corinthians 9:25-26
Self-control is the ability to exercise moderation or reasonable restraint in the indulgence of one’s appetite and passions. In the above Scripture, Paul teaches us that there are five qualities of a self-controlled life:
1. A self-controlled life has positive goals. What are your goals for your spiritual life, your marriage, your business, and your finances? Take the time to write them out. If you know where you’re heading, it’ll be easier to exercise self-control.
2. A self-controlled life involves discipline. Once the athlete knows the prize he longs to win, he begins training and preparing himself for the day of competition. Do you have a plan of discipline to reach your goals?
3. A self-controlled life demands focus.
Are you focused on your goals or are you easily distracted? Just as the athlete keeps focused on the prize for winning the competition, Paul kept focused on his heavenly goal of eternal life.
4. A self-controlled life includes the whole person: Mind, body and emotions. Self-control begins in the mind. We determine in our minds to behave a certain way. We determine in our minds that something is true or false based upon a life experience. Our mindset determines our feelings and our actions.
5. A self-controlled life means total submission to the coach and the coach’s training plan. The only way you and I can live a life of self-control is to totally surrender ourselves to the Holy Spirit and His control. The Holy Spirit is our coach. He teaches trains, corrects, and encourages us. When we yield to his coaching, we can live a life of self-control.
A Prayer: Father God, I thank you that you have given me Your Holy Spirit. Help me to submit myself completely to Him so that I may live a life of self-control, to your glory. Amen.
Acknowledgement: The Virtue of Self-Control – Jeff Armbrester