Holding Back!

There are many things we may feel the inclination to do. There are urges that can well up from within us that beg to be satisfied. An expression out of the 1960's was, "If it feels good, do it." Even today there are many who exercise little (if any) RESTRAINT in the manner in which they live their lives. If they want it, they pursuit it. If it provides personal pleasure, they run after it. However, what is the actual cost of living merely for the pleasure of the moment?

Solomon noted. . .
"Where there is NO PROPHETIC VISION the people CAST OFF RESTRAINT, but BLESSED is he who KEEPS THE LAW." ( Proverbs 29:18 ESV)

Note that the lack of RESTRAINT is mentioned in direct opposition to BEING BLESSED. The lack of RESTRAINT actually brings bondage to sin, because it is the inclinations of the flesh that have taken control of the life. On the other hand, while remaining within the boundaries of God's commands, freedom is actually found and a great burden is lifted. Lack of RESTRAINT brings pain and regret. Living in the sphere of God's Will brings peace and life in its truest and most pleasurable sense because of the overflowing joy ( 2 Corinthians 7:4) and surpassing peace ( Philippians 4:7) that become ours living in the favor of God.

John warned and encouraged. . .
"(9) EVERYONE WHO GOES ON AHEAD AND DOES NOT ABIDE IN THE TEACHING OF CHRIST, DOES NOT HAVE GOD. WHOEVER ABIDES IN THE TEACHING HAS BOTH THE FATHER AND THE SON." ( 2 John 9 ESV)

Without exercising RESTRAINT we will miss out on the BLESSINGS of God. Rather than going "on ahead" toward our own desires, ABIDING IN HIS TEACHING we have the ultimate blessing of "both the Father and the Son." May we seek God's strength and wisdom in reining in the desires of the flesh so as to remain in step with His Spirit. His Will will always bring about what is best for us.

Have a great day FINDING GOD'S BLESSING FROM SELF-CONTROL!
Carl

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