Self-control…what?

When I was a child, I remember going to the grocery store with mom. We would occasionally buy treats and I remember her making me wait – not only until we got home, but also until after dinner before I was able to have a cookie or two.

Now that I do the grocery shopping, I have found myself elbow deep in the treats before I even get out of the parking lot. I’m usually the only one who will partake in the treat so it’s not like anyone is getting my germs. But, seriously, I can’t even get out of the parking lot before the bag is opened.

The Bible does speak of self-control. Galatians 5:22-23 – But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. That last one gets me – especially when it comes to food.

I don’t know why it is so difficult for me to take food (chocolate) in moderation. I have fasted from it for a short while. I usually can control myself in public. But when I am alone with dark chocolate sea salt caramels – or even M & M’s, I am ravenous and lose control.

Whether it’s eating, exercising, planning, spending, internet browsing – it is easy to lose control.

But God (best words!)… He wants us to continually pray (1 Thessalonians 5:17.) We need to continue to crucify the flesh – bring it under control of the Spirit. And that requires us to be aware of what we are doing. Peter calls it being sober minded (1 Peter 5:8.)

I am learning (ever so slowly) to take inventory of my thoughts and to shift my focus to God and to pray. To communicate with God constantly. He wants me to bring EVERYTHING to Him. I have the fruit of the Spirt – one of which is self-control. Lord, help me continue to submit my flesh to Your Spirit.