LEARNING MORE ABOUT THE HOLY SPIRIT (PART-23)

HOLY SPIRIT (Part 23)

Last week (Part-22) we looked at a life of self-indulgence;
This week we will look at a life of self-control.

Self-control is probably one of the
greatest obstacles to living the life of a believer.
Whenever we fail to exercise self-control,
we become vulnerable to many of Satan’s schemes.
We open the door for him to get a foothold in our lives.

Lack of self-control can destroy our feeling of
dependence on the Lord as we become more independent.
We need self-control in order to avoid
being rude and uncaring of others.

When the bible tells us to have self-control,
it is a command, it is not a suggestion.
When we have self-control, we open the door to
additional blessings from the Lord, and it is easier to
develop similar characteristics of the one we follow, Jesus Christ.

– A life of self-control:
  – (Daniel 1:1-21) Daniel was one with self-control.
        – (Verse 8)
          Although the food must have been attractive,
          Daniel exercised self-control (he refused to defile himself).
          Note:
              Contrast his actions to Samson’s with the honey.
          Note:
              Look at the results of his self-control:
                  – He and his companions were healthier than the young men.
                  – They gained favor with the king’s official.
                  – God provided them with knowledge and understanding.

  – (Daniel 6:1-28)
    Daniel maintained his self-control in the face of adversity.
         – (Verses 4-5)
           Daniel lived a life of self-control.

         – (Verse 10)
            Apparently his self-control strengthened his faith and removed
            fear that could affect his dedication and service to the Lord.

         – (Verses 26-27)
            Daniel’s controlled life impacted the lives of others.

         – (Verse 28)
            Daniel was rewarded for maintaining self-control.

– Comparisons:
      – Daniel had both physical and spiritual discipline;
         Samson had neither.

      – Self-control enhances effectiveness;
         self-indulgence limits effectiveness.

      – Self-control prospers; self-indulgence perishes.

      – Samson denied his call of consecration; Daniel chose it.

      – Samson took more than he was offered;
        Daniel resisted what he was offered.

      – Samson assumed the power of God and ultimately lost it;
        Daniel asked for the power of God and ultimately found it.

      – Samson was overcome by his enemy;
        Daniel overcame his enemy.

      – Samson was victorious in his death;
        Daniel was victorious in his life.

      – Daniel was protected by the wall of self-discipline;
        Samson was not.

      – Daniel shows us that discipline prepares us for adversity.
        Note:
            Discipline includes daily prayer and self-control.