Let's Go Back to the Bible

You are in control, not someone or something else!

Have you ever lost your temper with someone? Who’s fault was it–yours or the other person? Have you ever become angry with your computer, television, remote control or some electronic device? Who’s fault was it–yours or the electronic equipment? Have you ever hit your thumb with a hammer and yelled a curse word? Who’s fault was it–yours or the hammer’s?

There are all sorts of people and things in this life that seem to be able to “trigger” a response in us. But, when we lose our temper or become enraged or shout a curse word or want to hurt someone, we are the ones personally responsible for that kind of response (not the other person or thing). As much as I might like to blame “that mean person” or “that dumb computer,” they hold no control over my words and my actions. That’s all on me.

That’s why a part of the fruit of the Spirit is “self-control” (Gal. 5:21-23). That’s why in Christian growth, we are to add to our knowledge “self-control” (2 Pet. 1:6). How’s your self-control?