Among a few other things, I retired the camera during our 21 day church-wide fast, and it was not as easy as I thought it would be. My youngest son, laughed, and said….”Mom, Taking Pictures for you is like a reflex. I thought, Really?
I read somewhere that this “Picture Taking” phenomenon has taken off since social media has become available through apps on our cell phone, and that it was slowly hurting our ability to live in and enjoy the moment. I don’t know if I would take it that far! As a JGrad, I truly do enjoy capturing special moments through the lens, and for me, taking pictures go hand-in-hand with writing (so it works for me). #smile #thenstrikeapose
There is nothing wrong with taking pictures, just as long as you don’t allow it to get in the way of you living your life, enjoying the journey, and embracing the moments. I found that by temporarily putting down the camera I was able to truly take in more…. I found out that not everything needed to be documented through the lens…. lol.
This week, how fitting it is that my study would be on Self-Control…. Here are a few of my Notes from this week’s study (hope it blesses you, as much as it has blessed me).
- Fundamental to the Christian view of Self-Control is that it is a gift. It is a Fruit of the Holy Spirit. Galatians 5:22-23: “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace . . . self-control”
- How do we “strive” against our fatal desires? Paul answers: “I labor, striving (agonizomenos) according to His power, which mightily works within me” Colossians 1:29 He “agonizes” by the power of Christ not his own. Similarly he tells us, “If by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body you will live” Romans 8:13 “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit, says the LORD of hosts” Zechariah 4:6. We must be fierce! Yes. But not by our might. “The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the LORD” Proverbs 21:31.
What is self-control? It is demonstrating the fruit of the Spirit instead of committing the works of the flesh Galatians 5:19-23
- Pray daily for God to give you more of His Spirit, including the self-control to demonstrate that fruit and avoid temptation. The more we pray, study, meditate and fast to draw closer to God (the source of the Holy Spirit), the more we will have the control to demonstrate the fruit of the Spirit. #Relationship #GoodMorningHolySpirit
