Lecture Notes: Real People, Real Impact – Practicing Self-Control

Introduction

• Series Theme: Real People, Real Impact
  • Focus on real biblical characters.
  • Characters had real challenges and were used by God.
  • God's desire is to use us; He has a plan for everyone.

Hindrances to God's Plan

• Main Hindrance: Lack of self-control.
  • Personal struggles with self-control in various areas (anger, lust, eating, shopping, binge-watching).
  • Many regrets in life stem from a lack of self-control.

Importance of Self-Control

• Biblical Reference: Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5)
  • Includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.
• Benefits:
  • Good health by controlling eating habits.
  • Avoid addiction by controlling gadget use.
  • Protect relationships by controlling lust.

Example: Samson

• Story Overview:
  • Samson had a divine calling and strength but struggled with self-control.
  • Key Weakness: Samson's desire for Philistine women led him away from God's plan.
• Life Lessons from Samson:
  • Importance of mastering emotions and recognizing personal weaknesses.
  • Need to magnify God rather than personal desires.

Practicing Self-Control

• Steps to Practice:
  1. Master Emotions: Align emotions with God's Word.
  2. Mind Weaknesses: Be aware and avoid situations that exploit weaknesses.
  3. Magnify God: Prioritize God and His purpose over personal desires.
• Practical Advice:
  • Surround yourself with godly influences and seek counsel.
  • Develop strong habits through daily practice of godly principles.

Conclusion

• Key Message: Practice self-control with the help of the Holy Spirit.
• Reflection: Life lessons from Samson's failures and redemption.
• Personal Application: Reflect on personal areas lacking self-control and seek God's guidance.

Additional Insights

• Samson's Downfall: His strength led to pride, thinking he could have anything.
• Redemption: In his final act, Samson acknowledges his need for God’s strength.
• Modern Context: Self-control in media consumption and relationships.

Reflection and Application

• Questions to Consider:
  • What are the red flags or weaknesses in your life?
  • How can you better submit to God’s plan?
  • In what ways can you practice self-control in daily life?
• Call to Action: Seek a relationship with God and rely on the Holy Spirit for self-control.

Tools for Practicing Self-Control

• Prayer: Aligns heart with God.
• Meditation on Scripture: Fills mind with God's truth.
• Community Support: Encourages and provides accountability.
• Awareness and Humility: Recognize and admit personal weaknesses and need for God.

Final Thoughts

• Realization: Brokenness can lead to wholeness when turning to God.
• Encouragement: No matter past failures, God’s grace offers redemption and purpose.