Get Smart! - Self-Control

This week, Pastor Nate  continues our journey through the book of Proverbs by exploring the theme of self-control—a powerful, protective, and essential virtue for godly living.

We start by reflecting on Proverbs 25:28, which compares a person without self-control to a city with broken-down walls—vulnerable and defenseless. Without self-control, we open ourselves to temptation, attack, and despair. But by applying the wisdom of Proverbs, we can begin rebuilding those protective walls.

We focus on three key areas where self-control matters most:

1. Guarding Our Words
   Proverbs teaches us to restrain our lips and think before we speak—not everything on our mind needs to be said. Wisdom comes when we acknowledge that we don't know it all and choose our words carefully, asking: Is it True, Helpful, Inspiring, Necessary, and Kind?
2. Practicing Patience
   Proverbs 16:32 tells us that patience is more powerful than physical strength. We saw this modeled in the lives of Jackie Robinson, MLK Jr., and Joseph, who all overcame injustice through patient endurance. We, too, must fix our eyes on the reward, trusting God’s timing.
3. Delaying Gratification
   From time and money to food and technology, Proverbs urges us to store up wisely and avoid overindulgence. Lack of self-control in these areas leads to regret, unpreparedness, and bondage. Small, daily decisions in stewardship and restraint lead to long-term peace and freedom.

Lastly, we look at self-control as a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23). This isn’t just about willpower or Stoic philosophy. True self-control comes from walking with the Spirit, surrendering our fleshly desires to God, and letting His power work in us. It's not behavior modification—it's spiritual transformation.