Embracing Self-Control Through the Holy Spirit
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, Friesland Community Church. Today, we gathered to worship and prepare for our upcoming communion service. We reflected on the swift passage of time and the importance of pausing to worship and be encouraged. Our children's message focused on the fruit of the Spirit, particularly self-control. We discussed how self-control is not just about willpower but about allowing the Holy Spirit to guide us. We also shared updates on our new social media initiatives and prayer requests for our community and the world.
We delved into the final fruit of the Spirit, self-control, and its significance in our Christian walk. Self-control is more than just personal discipline; it is about surrendering to the Holy Spirit's influence. We examined examples from Scripture, such as King David's lack of self-control and Joseph's steadfastness, to illustrate the consequences and benefits of self-control. We also looked at 2 Peter 1:5-11, which emphasizes the importance of adding virtues like self-control to our faith to ensure we are effective and productive in our knowledge of Jesus Christ.
We concluded with a call to exercise self-control like a muscle, strengthening it through consistent effort and reliance on God's strength. We were reminded that self-control is crucial for a fruitful Christian life and that it assures us of a rich welcome into God's kingdom. As we prepare for communion next week, we are encouraged to examine ourselves and grow in the fruit of the Spirit.
### Key Takeaways
1. Self-Control and the Holy Spirit: Self-control is not merely about personal willpower but about allowing the Holy Spirit to guide and influence us. It involves a conscious decision to let the Spirit control our actions and reactions, especially in challenging situations. This surrender to the Spirit's leading is crucial for spiritual growth and maturity. [35:23]
2. Biblical Examples of Self-Control: The Bible provides both positive and negative examples of self-control. King David's lack of self-control led to significant consequences, while Joseph's steadfastness in Potiphar's house exemplified the power of being controlled by the Spirit. These stories remind us of the importance of self-control in our own lives. [39:24]
3. The Role of Self-Control in Spiritual Growth: According to 2 Peter 1:5-11, self-control is a vital component of spiritual growth. It is one of the virtues we must add to our faith to ensure we are effective and productive in our knowledge of Jesus Christ. This growth process involves consistent effort and reliance on God's strength. [50:59]
4. Self-Control as a Muscle: Like a muscle, self-control strengthens with consistent exercise and effort. Initially, it may be challenging, but over time, as we practice self-control, it becomes more natural and robust. This analogy helps us understand the importance of perseverance and continuous growth in our spiritual journey. [52:47]
5. Eternal Reward and Self-Control: Self-control is not just about immediate benefits but also about securing a rich welcome into God's kingdom. Without self-control, we risk stumbling and losing our way. With it, we walk with clarity and assurance, knowing that our efforts are leading us toward an eternal reward. [56:46]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[06:24] - Opening Remarks and Hymns
[11:18] - Children's Message on Self-Control
[18:37] - Announcements and Social Media Updates
[20:29] - Prayer Requests and Current Events
[22:50] - Introduction to the Book of Nahum
[23:50] - Prayer for Guidance and Peace
[30:11] - Conclusion of Fruit of the Spirit Series
[33:25] - Self-Control: The Final Fruit
[35:23] - Understanding Self-Control and Temperance
[39:24] - Biblical Examples of Self-Control
[50:59] - Adding Virtues to Our Faith
[52:47] - Self-Control as a Muscle
[56:46] - Eternal Reward and Self-Control
[59:59] - Communion Preparation and Reflection
[01:04:53] - Reciting the Apostles' Creed
[01:09:04] - Closing Hymn and Benediction
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. 2 Peter 1:5-11 (NIV)
> "For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But whoever does not have them is nearsighted and blind, forgetting that they have been cleansed from their past sins. Therefore, my brothers and sisters, make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble, and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."
2. Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV)
> "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."
3. Genesis 39:7-10 (NIV)
> "And after a while his master's wife took notice of Joseph and said, 'Come to bed with me!' But he refused. 'With me in charge,' he told her, 'my master does not concern himself with anything in the house; everything he owns he has entrusted to my care. No one is greater in this house than I am. My master has withheld nothing from me except you, because you are his wife. How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?' And though she spoke to Joseph day after day, he refused to go to bed with her or even be with her."
#### Observation Questions
1. What does 2 Peter 1:5-11 say about the importance of self-control in our spiritual growth?
2. According to Galatians 5:22-23, where does self-control fit within the fruit of the Spirit?
3. How did Joseph demonstrate self-control in Genesis 39:7-10, and what were the immediate consequences of his actions?
4. In the sermon, what analogy was used to describe the process of developing self-control? ([52:47])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does 2 Peter 1:5-11 emphasize adding virtues like self-control to our faith? How does this contribute to being effective and productive in our knowledge of Jesus Christ?
2. How does the story of Joseph in Genesis 39 illustrate the benefits of self-control and the potential costs of lacking it?
3. The sermon mentioned that self-control is like a muscle that strengthens with consistent exercise. How can this analogy help us understand the process of spiritual growth? ([52:47])
4. What does the sermon suggest about the role of the Holy Spirit in exercising self-control, and how does this differ from relying solely on personal willpower? ([35:23])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a recent situation where you struggled with self-control. How might relying more on the Holy Spirit have changed your response? ([35:23])
2. The sermon highlighted the importance of self-control for a fruitful Christian life. Identify one area in your life where you need to exercise more self-control. What steps can you take this week to improve in that area? ([58:44])
3. Joseph's story in Genesis 39 shows the power of steadfastness in the face of temptation. Think of a temptation you face regularly. What practical measures can you put in place to resist it, as Joseph did? ([41:50])
4. The sermon mentioned that self-control ensures we do not stumble and lose our way. How can you incorporate regular self-examination into your spiritual routine to ensure you are growing in self-control? ([56:46])
5. The analogy of self-control as a muscle suggests that it strengthens with practice. What specific exercises or habits can you adopt to build your self-control over time? ([52:47])
6. Reflect on the eternal reward mentioned in 2 Peter 1:11. How does the promise of a "rich welcome into the eternal kingdom" motivate you to pursue self-control and other virtues in your daily life? ([56:46])
7. The sermon encouraged us to examine ourselves as we prepare for communion. What areas of your life do you need to bring before God for growth in self-control before participating in communion next week? ([59:59])
Devotional
Day 1: Surrendering to the Holy Spirit's Guidance
Self-control is not merely about personal willpower but about allowing the Holy Spirit to guide and influence us. It involves a conscious decision to let the Spirit control our actions and reactions, especially in challenging situations. This surrender to the Spirit's leading is crucial for spiritual growth and maturity. When we rely solely on our strength, we often fall short, but when we allow the Holy Spirit to work through us, we find the strength to overcome temptations and challenges. This divine guidance helps us to live a life that is pleasing to God and reflective of His character.
The Holy Spirit's role in our lives is transformative. By surrendering to His influence, we open ourselves to a deeper relationship with God and a more profound understanding of His will for us. This surrender is not a one-time event but a daily commitment to seek His guidance in all aspects of our lives. As we grow in our faith, we learn to trust the Holy Spirit more, allowing Him to shape our thoughts, words, and actions. This process of surrender and transformation is essential for our spiritual growth and maturity. [35:23]
Galatians 5:16-17 (ESV): "But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you struggle to surrender to the Holy Spirit's guidance? How can you make a conscious effort today to seek His influence in those areas?
Day 2: Learning from Biblical Examples
The Bible provides both positive and negative examples of self-control. King David's lack of self-control led to significant consequences, while Joseph's steadfastness in Potiphar's house exemplified the power of being controlled by the Spirit. These stories remind us of the importance of self-control in our own lives. David's failure to exercise self-control resulted in a series of tragic events, including adultery and murder, which had lasting repercussions on his life and kingdom. In contrast, Joseph's unwavering commitment to self-control, even in the face of temptation, led to his eventual rise to power and the fulfillment of God's plan for his life.
These biblical examples serve as powerful reminders of the impact our choices can have on our lives and the lives of those around us. They encourage us to strive for self-control, knowing that our actions have consequences. By studying these stories, we can learn valuable lessons about the importance of self-control and the benefits of allowing the Holy Spirit to guide us. These examples also remind us that, despite our failures, God's grace is always available to help us grow and improve. [39:24]
Proverbs 25:28 (ESV): "A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you struggled with self-control. What were the consequences of your actions, and how can you learn from that experience to make better choices in the future?
Day 3: Adding Virtues to Our Faith
According to 2 Peter 1:5-11, self-control is a vital component of spiritual growth. It is one of the virtues we must add to our faith to ensure we are effective and productive in our knowledge of Jesus Christ. This growth process involves consistent effort and reliance on God's strength. As we strive to develop self-control, we are also called to cultivate other virtues such as goodness, knowledge, perseverance, godliness, mutual affection, and love. These virtues work together to strengthen our faith and deepen our relationship with God.
The process of adding virtues to our faith is not always easy, but it is essential for our spiritual development. By making a conscious effort to grow in these areas, we become more effective and productive in our Christian walk. This growth not only benefits us personally but also enables us to be a positive influence on those around us. As we develop self-control and other virtues, we become better equipped to handle the challenges and temptations we face, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and fruitful Christian life. [50:59]
2 Peter 1:5-7 (ESV): "For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love."
Reflection: Which virtue do you find most challenging to develop in your life? How can you take practical steps today to grow in that area?
Day 4: Exercising Self-Control Like a Muscle
Like a muscle, self-control strengthens with consistent exercise and effort. Initially, it may be challenging, but over time, as we practice self-control, it becomes more natural and robust. This analogy helps us understand the importance of perseverance and continuous growth in our spiritual journey. Just as physical exercise requires discipline and commitment, so does the development of self-control. By consistently making choices that align with God's will, we gradually build our capacity for self-control.
The process of strengthening self-control involves daily decisions and actions. It requires us to be mindful of our thoughts, words, and behaviors, and to seek God's guidance in all situations. As we practice self-control, we become more attuned to the Holy Spirit's leading and better equipped to resist temptations. This ongoing effort not only benefits our spiritual growth but also enhances our overall well-being and relationships with others. By viewing self-control as a muscle that needs regular exercise, we can approach our spiritual journey with a sense of purpose and determination. [52:47]
1 Corinthians 9:25-27 (ESV): "Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified."
Reflection: What specific actions can you take today to exercise self-control in a challenging area of your life? How can you make this a consistent practice?
Day 5: Eternal Reward and Self-Control
Self-control is not just about immediate benefits but also about securing a rich welcome into God's kingdom. Without self-control, we risk stumbling and losing our way. With it, we walk with clarity and assurance, knowing that our efforts are leading us toward an eternal reward. The practice of self-control helps us to stay focused on our spiritual goals and to live a life that is pleasing to God. It reminds us that our actions have eternal significance and that our choices today can impact our future in God's kingdom.
The promise of an eternal reward serves as a powerful motivation for developing self-control. It encourages us to persevere in our efforts, even when the journey is difficult. By keeping our eyes on the ultimate goal, we can find the strength and determination to overcome obstacles and remain faithful to God's calling. This eternal perspective helps us to prioritize our spiritual growth and to make choices that align with God's will. As we strive for self-control, we can look forward to the rich welcome that awaits us in God's kingdom. [56:46]
2 Timothy 4:7-8 (ESV): "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing."
Reflection: How does the promise of an eternal reward influence your daily decisions and actions? What steps can you take today to align your life more closely with God's will?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "One of the things that God wants us to do is meditate on his word. And when we meditate on it, we can grow. So, we hope that these daily devotions on Facebook will help you be kind of growing in your fruit, of the Spirit." [19:07] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "As Christians, we are called to work for the good of our nation and our countries or even our world. And, by doing that, we can petition God. So, as we do that, as we go to the Lord in prayer today, I want just to remind us to be praying. Remind us as a church to be praying, not just here, but all week long as we see events unfold in our world." [22:20] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Lord, help us to not lose sight of the one who is the Prince of Peace. That even in the midst of chaos and just hardships, that you can give us peace. Help us to rely on you, not our circumstances." [25:18] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "See, without self-control, our desires drive us to destruction. But with self-control, direction drives us to destiny. You know this to be true. In my own life, when I went back to school in my 30s, I didn't know if I could do it." [46:24] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The Spirit produces self-control in us as we surrender to His leading. It's not about necessarily just willpower like I said before. But relying on God's strength in these moments of weakness. Because we all have them. The devil is like a lion, roaring, trying to get us off the mark." [48:18] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Self-control here is talked about letting the Spirit influence us. I've heard many stories about people who were addicted to drugs and then they have this come to Jesus moment and then they just don't even want to do them anymore. Those are the more miraculous stories that we hear about and we go, wow, that's an amazing testimony." [35:59] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "See, the Spirit produces self-control in us as we surrender to His leading. It's not about necessarily just willpower like I said before. But relying on God's strength in these moments of weakness. Because we all have them. The devil is like a lion, roaring, trying to get us off the mark." [48:18] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "See, a stagnant pool of water, you know this to be true, it becomes murky and unhealthy if there's no living water coming into it. But where there's a flowing river, that water tends to be more pure and life-giving. Similarly, our spiritual growth, it needs to be continuous. Stagnation in our spiritual growth will lead to decay." [55:32] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The fruit of the Spirit, we need to understand this, is proof of who we say we are. We can call ourselves whatever we want, but if we have no fruit, then are we actually what we say we are? This is a question to us. So as we wrap up this series, I ask you today, how is your fruit bearing?" [58:05] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Self-control is crucial for a fruitful Christian. It's the foundation, it's our growth catalyst, and the key to the eternal reward that we're so eagerly pushing after us. Without self-control, we will stumble in blindness, but with self-control, we will walk with clarity secure a rich welcome into God's kingdom." [58:44] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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