|
Ask, and it shall be given to you;
seek, and you shall find; knock, and it shall be opened to you. Matt.
7:7
|
|
"TEMPERANCE"
Temperance is one of those words
that is not used a great deal in our daily conversations. It's defined
as "self - restraint in conduct, expression; moderation." Self-indulgence
corrupts society. Self-control exhibits qualities characteristic of God's
children.
Consequences of Self-Indulgence:
-
Leads to futility. Solomon's experiments
proved in vain (Ecclesiastes 2:10-11).
-
Develops dissatisfaction. Israel
scorned the manna from heaven (Numbers 11:5).
-
Encourages carnality. the rich farmer
was too occupied with pleasure to remember (Luke 12:19).
-
Results in barrenness. No fruit
brought to perfection by those choked with cares, riches and pleasures
of this life (Luke 8:14).
-
Ends in destruction. A man without
control is like a city with no defense (Proverbs 25:28).
Values of Self-Control:
-
Promotes health. Fear, worry and
unrestrained emotion lead to all manner of illnesses (Daniel 1:15).
-
Encourages self-confidence. Why
do you suppose Esther proclaimed a fast? (Esther 4:16).
-
Strengthens faith. Why did the Lord
fast before His temptation ? (Matthew 4:2).
-
Develop piety. John the Baptist
was great in the sight of the Lord and filled with the Holy Ghost (Luke
1:15).
-
Leads to mastery. Winners must practice
temperance (Corinthians 9:25).
Self-Control. can be developed
with proper attitudes and activities. It must be exercised over both mind
and body. Self-Control is both constructive and Christ-like and
is sound doctrine.
|
|