We live in a world that says, “Do what feels right.” But the Holy Spirit gives us the strength to say “no” to what pulls us away from God and “yes” to what draws us closer.
Self-control is the final attribute listed in the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23), and it might be the hardest one to fake. You can impress others with charisma or charm, but self-control shows up when no one else is around. It’s not about behavior management; it’s about being led by the Spirit rather than driven by impulse.
And the Spirit’s work in this area is critical, because left to ourselves, we don’t drift toward discipline.
What’s the Opposite?
The opposite of self-control is indulgence.
Indulgence says, “If I want it, I deserve it.” It resists boundaries and justifies compromise. It shows up in our habits, our words, our screens, our reactions. It wants to be satisfied immediately, no matter the cost.
But the Spirit teaches us something different. He helps us slow down, think clearly, and align our desires with God’s will rather than our flesh.
Self-Control That Resists Temptation
In Matthew 4, Jesus spent forty days in the wilderness fasting, and that’s when Satan showed up. The temptations were intense: turn stones into bread, test God’s protection, take a shortcut to power. But Jesus resisted every time, not with raw willpower, but with the truth of Scripture and submission to the Father.
That’s self-control. Not just resisting something bad but staying committed to something better.
And the Spirit gives us that same ability to resist the bait and stay on the path.
How to Know You’re Growing in Self-Control
Self-control isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress. You’ll know you’re growing when:
- You pause before reacting.
- You guard your eyes, your thoughts, and your words.
- You’re not ruled by your appetite or addiction.
- You do what honors God, even when no one else sees it.
Self-control grows when we depend on the Spirit, not when we pretend we’re strong enough on our own.
One Step Today
Here’s a question to reflect on:
“Where am I letting my impulses lead instead of letting the Spirit lead?”
Whether it’s a conversation, a craving, or a pattern you’ve been battling, the Holy Spirit is ready to give you the power to choose differently today.
You don’t have to stay stuck. The same Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead can help you walk in freedom and live with clarity, even behind closed doors.
