FRUIT OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

NEW GENERATION IN CHRIST KINGDOM

Cell Group Ministry

SELF-CONTROL
Warm Upp

1. Recall a time when you stopped yourself from doing something that you know
would hurt someone. What happened?
2. What is one item you always like to purchase (e.g. books, clothes, bags, music)?
Why?

Wordd

W O R D Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.
Proverbs 25:28 (TNIV)

11For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. 12It teaches us to
say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and
godly lives in this present age . . .
Titus 2:11,12

The Bible likens a person without self-control to a city unable to defend itself from
intruders and attack because its walls have been broken through. The Holy Spirit works
to produce self-control in our lives so that we are able to live in victory over temptations
and freedom from bondages. Through God’s grace, we can say “no” to sin and live a life
that pleases God. Following are four areas in our lives where the Holy Spirit teaches us
self-control.

1. SELF-CONTROL IN OUR SPENDING HABITS

In the house of the wise are stores of choice food and oil, but a foolish man devours all
he has.
Proverbs 21:20

As we grow in our relationship with God, we will seek to honor Him in every area
of our lives. That includes our resources and money. Why do we need to show restraint
in this area? Share some lessons you have learned in self-control when dealing with
money (e.g. budgeting, saving, giving).

2. SELF-CONTROL IN WHAT WE SAY

27A man of knowledge uses words with restraint, and a man of understanding is
even-tempered. 28Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent, and discerning if
he holds his tongue.
Proverbs 17:27,28
 FRUIT OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

Why is it important to keep our words in restraint? Recall a time when you had to
discern and hold your tongue. What happened?

3. SELF-CONTROL IN OUR TEMPER

A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control.
Proverbs 29:11

Better a patient man than a warrior, a man who controls his temper than one who takes
a city.
Proverbs 16:32

If we cannot control our temperament, we will not be able to lead and direct our
families, businesses, and relationships well. Why is it wise to control one’s temper?

4. SELF-CONTROL IN OUR THOUGHTS

We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge
of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
2 Corinthians 10:5

Though we cannot prevent thoughts from entering our minds, we can prevent
from believing them and making decisions based on these thoughts. How can the Holy
Spirit help us control our thoughts?

Personal Applicationn

1. In which of these four areas do you think God is teaching you to develop more
self-control? What is one specific thing you can do to exercise self-control this
week?
2. Are you able to say “no” to sin? Have you made a decision to turn away from
everything the Bible calls sin?
3. Are there any other areas where you need self-control? Ask God to help you as
you seek to grow in your relationship with Him.

Prayer i
On the space provided below, record prayer requests and answers to prayer.
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