Genesis 9:21 (NKJV)

‘Then he drank of the wine and was drunk, and became uncovered in his tent.’

Self-control is not only a fruit of the Spirit but a personal discipline. Self-control is most needed when there is something enticing that fancies our attention. Self-control is obviously easier when dealing with things evidently considered as evil but self-control is not as easy when it comes to dealing with things that may be lawful, yet not exactly beneficial. For example, we all know that sexual immorality is evil and hence we must stay away from it, but how do we handle the addictive use of media or control our appetite before our favorite dish?

Noah was overjoyed with the freedom from the Ark and he drank his wine to such an extent that he couldn’t resist continuing beyond the limits of soberness. In the same way, what are those things that we love so much that have the potential to pull us away from the narrow path and leave us uncovered and ashamed? What are those things that may not be clearly ‘evil’ and yet God is commanding us to stay away from them? Inability to practice self-control has only one result: shame. Control is essential to fruitfulness and dignity.

‘Lord, show me areas of excess in my life and grant me a renewed vigor to refuse the addiction to anything, outside of you. Keep me balanced and place me on your leash of control that I may not fail to live within the limits of your expectations for my life. These I ask through Christ. Amen.’