Friday, October 14, 2005
THE ART OF SELF-CONTROL
THE ART OF SELF-CONTROL
Contributed by Melanie Schurr
Oct 14, 2005
"So think clearly and exercise self-control." I Peter 1:13
In the 1960's, which was considered the "hippie" generation within the
United States, there was a popular phrase, "If it feels good, do it!"
Obviously, this was a message promoting instant gratification, minus
worry of the probable consequences. Today, many people affirm this is
the "me" generation. In other words, everything is about the
individual's needs, whims and desires.
At a glance, these may sound like very suitable life philosophies, but
let us keep in mind that what society may deem popular is not always
what God considers appropriate.
You may ask, "What's wrong with satisfying a desire of mine? After all,
aren't I worth it? I see no reason to deprive myself of what makes me
feel good!"
Quenching healthy desires is a very good thing, but it is the feeding
of poison into our minds, bodies and spirits that ultimately bring
sickness and risk of death to our souls. For example, a vial of heroine
may bring temporary nirvana, but most wise individuals understand why
it is best to leave such substances alone. Unfortunately, satan is such
a deceiver that not all things which are a danger to us are so clearly
marked. Consider the married husband or wife who has a bit too much to
drink at a night club, and is seriously considering an extra-marital
affair with the flirtatious person they just met. Their mind and body
might be saying, "Go for it! It will feel great, and what your spouse
doesn't know won't hurt them," but the reality is, the sin of adultery
will hurt, not only God and your own spiritual welfare, but there will
be a negative effect within your marriage.
As the above Bible verse explains, it is best for us to think clearly,
soberly and using godly wisdom, and to practice the art of
self-control. The ability to refuse and turn away from those things
that are unhealthy and harmful to our minds, bodies and spirits, is not
about deprivation, but for the protection of ourselves and our loved
ones. It is the wise and mature person who understands the beauty in
the word "no" at the appropriate times.
Yes, my friends, sometimes it is necessary in life to say a firm "No,"
but at other times, such as in regard to our acceptance of Christ in to
our lives, it is good to say "Yes!"
Contributed by Melanie Schurr (C) 2005 Melanie Schurr Melanie Schurr is
author of "Ecstatic Living Ecstatic Loving: How to have more peace and
joy in marriage, and life in general by walking in harmony with God,"
and "Son Salutations: A refreshing collection of modern inspirations
for those who seek God each day." For more information, visit her web
page at http://www.angelfire.com/mi/melschurr
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