Okay another sidesplitting humorous topic for me to tackle for those who know me. I am the one who has friends praying me through each drama so that I won’t swear or throw things. Friends – you know who you are!! And thank you.
Nonetheless it will do me good to focus myself here since I have fruit about the size of a grape – cut in quarters – in this area. If there is anyone else who wants to come along side while I stumble through this, I would appreciate the company.
I can totally see that this fruit is valuable beyond words. It is involved in actions like holding my tongue, waiting to respond until I pray, assuming the best, realizing I don’t always know what I’m talking about … well you know … a fruit that is life-giving.
SELF CONTROL is one of the stepping-stones to keep us from being ineffective and unproductive in our knowledge of Jesus Christ. It is on the pathway to participating in the divine nature and escaping the corruption of the world. SEE I PETER I:3 -9.
The Lord Jesus intended us to be witnesses for Him to the ends of the earth. Among all types of people, in all situations, amidst the ferocious attacks of the enemy – Jesus intends us to focus on what is most important. That’s going to take self-control.
While we wait for His return – I THESSALONIANS 5 talks about the coming day and tells us in verse 5 “ … let us be alert and self-controlled” and in verse 8 “But since we belong to the day, let us be self-controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet.”
While I’m witnessing to the ends of the earth (or in Waukegan, Winthrop Harbor and Zion) ... As I wait for that day when as lightening flashes from east to west – Jesus is seen by all - returning … As I seek to put on faith and love and hope … Lord please show me how to let the Holy Spirit bear this precious fruit in my life. Amen.