Self-Discipline: The Key to Spiritual Growth

Last week we looked at Galatians 5:19-23 and discussed the deeds of the flesh that God wants us to avoid and the fruit of the Spirit that He wants us to have. We also considered why God wants this change. Today let us examine what is needed to achieve this change. I believe the key is the last attribute listed in these verses: self-control. We need self-control to avoid acts such as adultery, fornication and jealousy. Similarly, we need self-control to develop qualities such as love, peace and joy. Self-control is crucial because it is the foundation of all other virtues. In the original Greek, the word is *egkrateia*, which means the virtue of controlling one’s desires and passions, especially sensual desires. The key to mastering self-control is to prioritize the spiritual life over the flesh. Whenever worldly desires start to overshadow our good decisions and our relationship with God, we need to regain self-control immediately. In our next post, we will explore practical ways to develop this important trait.