What is this construct we call “SELF”? Is it this biological aggregate I call my physical body? Or is it the immaterial essence I call my spirit, my thoughts, my will, my mind? Could it be both? If it is both body and mind, how does this work together to produce a well-controlled cohesive whole to the glory of God?
As I look at my own SELF, there seems to be a conflict, maybe even a battle going on. Sometimes my body wants a certain thing but my mind says, “That’s not good for you, buddy.” Sometimes my mind says you should do this, but my body says, “Really? Not a chance, dude.” What is going on here? Am I controlling myself? Or is myself controlling me? Do I have any hope in directing this conflicted construct I call SELF to the glory of God?
As I look to God’s Word for help, the answer is a resounding, “Yes!” Thank You God! As a believer in Jesus Christ, God has given me “a spirit of power and love and self-control” (2 Timothy 1:7 ESV). Through the Holy Spirit given to me at salvation, “He is training me to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live a self-controlled, upright, and godly life in this present age” (Titus 2:12). I am now able, and desire to, “take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:5). I am now more apt to resist those mental and physical corrosive urgings that lead me astray. Fulfilling Jesus Christ’s command where He says, “If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow Me” (Luke 9:23). Sweet! By practice over time I am getting better at this. From what I can see, godly, biblical self-control is Christ following, and this brings honor and glory to God.
I love You God. I trust You God. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Thank You God.
—Robin