Is Self-Control really a fruit of the spirit?

Rethinking Self-Control: Is It Really a Fruit of the Spirit?

Self-Control: A Misunderstood Fruit of the Spirit

What if I told you that self-control isn’t really a fruit of the Spirit? Yes, Galatians 5:22-23 lists self-control as one of the fruits of the Spirit, but let’s dig deeper into what this truly means. The term “self-control” as we understand it—self-discipline and self-sufficiency—is rooted in worldly concepts. Anything God requires of us depends on His strength, not ours.

Earthly Versus Spiritual Self-Control

Self-control, in a worldly sense, means abstaining or refraining from certain actions—a restraint we exercise through sheer willpower. Self-discipline follows as the ability to start and finish a task despite challenges. While these concepts are useful in daily life, they don’t fully align with the Kingdom of God. In the Kingdom, we are not called to rely on our own strength but on God’s. For in the written Word it says "He who started the work will complete it". Our Faith is in Him not ourselves. 

In the Greek, the term used for self-control in Galatians 5:23 is “egkrateia,” which refers to inner strength or divine power—strength that comes from God, not ourselves. It’s about Spirit-enabled discipline, not human effort.

The Wall of Fire Analogy

To better understand this, consider the imagery in Zechariah 2. God describes Himself as a wall of fire around His people, signifying protection, provision, and strength. Unlike earthly walls made of brick, which give a false sense of security, God’s wall of fire is impenetrable and limitless. This is not something we construct ourselves, but a divine strength that surrounds and sustains us. As we are humble, It is our hiding place. It is where our identity is, which is in Him. 

Psalm 32:7 reinforces this: “You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance.” When we operate in God’s strength, we are protected, secure, and free.

Dependence on God: The Father-Child Analogy

Imagine a child feeling threatened or scared. One child might stand and fight, relying on their own strength, while another might run to hide behind their parent, finding security in their father’s presence. As believers, we are like the second child. Our strength doesn’t come from within ourselves but from our dependence on God, our perfect Father.

Psalm 119:114 says, “You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in your word.” This dependence on God’s strength, rather than our own, is the essence of Spirit-enabled self-control.

"Self-Discipline" and Running the Race

Paul’s analogy of running a race in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 highlights the importance of discipline. However, Paul isn’t advocating for self-reliance. Instead, he recognizes the separation between his flesh and his Spirit-led identity. He disciplines his body, bringing it into submission, as a reflection of his dependence on God. Paul is walking in the pattern of of Jesus. As Jesus having authority, disciplines us(his body) despite our carnal sinful nature we submit as slaves to him. Likewise as we renew our minds daily we walk in authority as His and we throw blows to our body as slaves, we discipline it like we would a child BY HIS SPIRIT. 

Just like an athletes in the spiritual race, our focus is on three key areas:

1. Diet: Feeding on the Bread of Life, meditating on God’s Word, and fasting.
2. Exercise: Praying, worshiping, and fellowshipping with other believers.
3. Rest: Remaining in God’s presence, resting from striving in our own strength.

This holistic approach allows us to run the race with endurance, relying on God’s strength to sustain us.

Practical Steps for Spirit-Led Living

1. Surrender to God: Acknowledge your dependence on Him daily. Pray for His guidance and strength.
2. Focus on Him: Prioritize time in His Word, prayer, and worship. Let Him be the center of your life.
3. Cut Out Distractions: Like an athlete in training, eliminate anything that hinders your walk with God.
4. Stay Humble: Recognize that all you have comes from God. Be a steward of His gifts, including your time and resources.

Conclusion: True Strength Comes From God

Inner divine strength/authority over our flesh (previously self-control), as a fruit of the Spirit, is not about self-reliance or willpower. It is a Spirit-enabled discipline rooted in our dependence on God. Like the wall of fire in Zechariah 2, God’s strength surrounds us, protects us, and empowers us to live victoriously.

Let’s let go of the worldly mindset of self-sufficiency and embrace the freedom of Spirit-led living. Remember we are reborn and no longer identify with "self". WE ARE HIS.  Through Him, we are equipped, protected, and transformed for His glory.