feeling out of control?
April 15th, 2009 Tim Posted in SevenLakes Info |
(Nancy) So the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). Ever wonder why self-control is last? I have this theory that, while they certainly overlap and we’re never perfected in love, that, to a certain extent, the order is chronological. Self-control: food, thoughts, temper, anxiety, wasting time at work (it’s a church blog…oops!), wanting a good thing but wanting it NOW… self-control. The funny thing is that, while we have cultural language for requesting prayer for the sick or grieved and for wishing God’s blessings on one another, there’s no everyday language for progress in sanctification. “Please pray for Uncle George, he has the flu”, sure. ”May God bless your new marriage,” of course. ”I lost weight because the Holy Spirit’s increasing my self control,” huh? You just don’t hear that one. How about, “I’m no longer chewing my fingernails because God’s given me peace”? Or even, “I’ve stopped yelling at my son by the power that raised Jesus from the dead”? Well, it could happen, He’s a big God. And I can’t help but think that Christians and a church manifesting the fruit of the Spirit bring glory to Christ. And isn’t that the whole point?
April 18th, 2009 at 2:36 pm
I appreciate your candor. I’ve enjoyed reading your posts for the last several months. (I think I’m talking to Nancy based on the format of the post. However I’m not totally sure). Self-control…progress in sanctification…lots to ponder.
Thanks again
April 19th, 2009 at 1:59 pm
Thanks, Marie! It’s nice to hear that it’s being read and enjoyed. My husband, Tim, has posted less than me lately. I’m not sure if I’ve met you, will you be at the Wine Down Wednesday? Amy estimates the list is up to 75 between both campuses! Peace, Nancy
April 21st, 2009 at 11:10 am
Yes I will be there. I will seek you out and introduce myself to you.
Thanks
April 26th, 2009 at 8:21 am
Nancy, I’ve been thinking about food and self control. I’m 100 lbs over weight. Not a healty or pretty image to behold. No one really needs to tell me what to do.
Already had 2 cups coffee, I am already hyper.
On a good note I’ve also had approximately 25 -32 oz’s of water with lemon. I’ve blended 1 cup strawberries with about 1 cup Milk (2%) if I had nonfat I would of used it. I don’t need any sweetner because I am satisfied with this drink. Also, did spend time in the word talking to God and other Christians on the web and at home. On my way to church