Beyond the Gospels: Titus

Today's Reading: Titus 2:1-6
(Click on the link to read the Scripture.)

Three times the word pops up in the NIV translation... self-controlled. No person is left out of Paul's instruction: older men, young men, young wives, older women, and children. When it all comes down to it isn't it always about self-control? We tend to let our mind, will and emotions control us. Excuses are made about why we lose control. Some believe emotions control us, not the other way around. This is a lie that leads to destruction.

It leaves me questioning. How does one do it...? have constant self-control? I've tried self-help books and what the world has to offer. I decided at one point will-power was the only way to be self-controlled. That didn't work either. Self-control comes from the Spirit... that's it... end of story.

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.

Galatians 5:22-23

Self-control is the fruit of being grounded and rooted in the Spirit. Trees don't will-power fruit and neither can we. The more we soak our roots in God's Word, and bask in the sunshine of His presence, the more fruit we produce. This is the secret to self-control laid right before our eyes.

Have you been lacking in the self-control department? Do emotions seem to rule and reign in you? If this is the case, maybe instead of focusing on controlling yourself, focus on Him.

Lord, You know I can't control my mind, will, and emotions

apart for Your Holy Spirit. I can't but You can.

I surrender my self to You today.