Self Control
By Bill Pierson
        The American Heritage dictionary defines self-control as "Control of one's emotions, desires or action by ones own will". The New Testament identifies self-control as one of the virtues a Christian should have. "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control. NIV Galatians 5:22,23  Self-control is also mentioned in the following passages: 1 Thessalonians 5:6,8, I Titus 3:2, Titus 1:8, 2:2, 2:5, 2:6, 2:12, I Peter 1:13, 4:7, 5:8, II Peter 1:6, I Colossians 7:5. It is obvious that the Bible considers self-control an important part of our lives.
        How does the Bible define self-control? In the context of the passages noted above self-control means:


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