Self-control: The fruit of the Spirit (XIII)

The last in this cluster (of nine) in what is called the Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22,23), is self-control. The Greek lexicon gives this as the virtue of one who masters his desires and passions, especially his sensual appetites. This list of virtues that flow out of a vital connection with the Spirit is clearly not complete. Absent for example, are faith and humility. But it is as though naming this last virtue in this list prompted the thought, in Paul’s mind of the need to put to death the sinful nature with its passions and desires (verse 24). James reminds us that it is out of hedonistic desires that wars and fights arise (James 4:1). And above all, in order for self-control to grow, these desires need, with the help of the Spirit, to be put to death (Romans 8:13).

But certainly as likely none of those in the list do, this virtue does not exist in isolation. In particular, Peter sees this as part of a progression of virtues. He says “But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control … (2 Peter 1: 5, 6). The progression is interesting, because true faith brings with it a desire to please Him, and in particular to practice any virtue He may be putting HIs finger on. And often it is only when we try to practice a particular virtue, that we discover how hard it is. With our addictions, for example, it is only when we try to stop that we realize just how addicted we really are, and how much we have hidden this knowledge from ourselves (Romans 1:18). So then practicing virtues leads more and more to the self-knowledge of just what we are capable of outside of the influence of the Holy Spirit, and how easily we deceive ourselves (Jeremiah 17:9). And this naturally and progressively leads us to wanting to cooperate with Holy Spirit in producing self-control. We cannot do it without Him (John 15:5), but with Him all things are possible.

The “very reason” Peter is talking about in the above quote, has to do with the fact that we have been given exceedingly great and precious promises through which we may actually be partakers of His divine nature (verse 4). And this, brings us full circle back to the fact that this only truly works in partnership with Him. As I said earlier, a fruit tree does not strive to produce fruit. Neither are we intended to strive to produce the fruit of the Spirit. Rather we need to believe (have faith) that everything has already been provided for life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue (verse 3). Nevertheless since these virtues are also commanded (i.e. love is both fruit and is commanded John 15:12), we have a part to play. In other words we have to practice the fruit, and in particular we need to practice self control.

Lord Jesus, You would not tell us that Your yoke is easy and Your burden light, if it were not so (Matthew 11:30). You do not want us striving Lord, and so please forgive us when when we do. Thank You that when we fail and confess, You are faithful and just both to forgive us, and to cleanse us (1 John 1:9). And once again Lord, thank You that You will keep right on working with us in these things until the day we see You face to face. Thank You Lord that on that day we will be truly like You (1 John 3:2). And we bless You again this morning Lord, in Your precious Name Amen