Will power is a very good thing. How much do you have? The bible tells us there is something better than will power. It is called self-control and it is a “fruit of the spirit”. Galatians 5:22 But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. Thank you, Holy Spirit!
This world offers us many things, and we
are free to do what we want. We are free
to follow every whim. But you know your
heart has been changed when you want to do the right thing, the good thing, the
loving and mature thing. Falling in love
with Jesus changed my “want to”. Plus it provided a strength beyond my own.
So when the next thing that seems like a harmless thrill presents
itself, pause. Pray first. Let the Holy Spirit help you make your
decision. That is where the strength
comes from. Turn your thoughts to God. Simple prayers are a
powerful connection to Him. "Lord, guide me", "Lord, help me", or simply whispering "Jesus" are all it takes. Too easy, I know.
Do you notice that your car speedometer
goes to 150? Do you spend all your money
on cookies? Do you take everything that
is offered to you? See, you already have
a measure of self-control. Follow God
and he will provide the rest.
Change my heart, Oh God.
