In the ladder of Christian growth laid out in 2 Peter 1, we find a striking call to personal mastery:
“…and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, steadfastness…”
— 2 Peter 1:6 (AMP)
Self-control (enkrateia, ἐγκράτεια) in Greek means inner strength, the ability to hold oneself together from within. It is not about suppression, but a Spirit-Governed order in the soul. To walk in self-control is not legalism—it is proof of genuine salvation, showing that the Spirit of Christ is alive and active within.
Self-Control in the Days of Peter #
In Peter’s time, the word enkrateia was commonly used to describe elite athletes. These men and women willingly denied themselves physical indulgences such as sexual pleasure, excessive food, or sleep, for the sake of rigorous training. Why? Because they had a goal. They weren’t random. They were focused. Likewise, the believer who walks by the Spirit does not let the body dictate the day. The appetite does not rule the altar.
“But I [discipline] my body and make it my slave, so that, after I have preached to others, I myself will not somehow be disqualified [as unfit for service].”
— 1 Corinthians 9:27 (AMP)
What Is Biblical Self-Control? #
| Worldly View | Spirit-Led View |
|---|---|
| Self-help, willpower | Spirit-empowered mastery over desire |
| Denial for ego or performance | Yielding to Christ so He reigns within |
| Rigid perfectionism | Grace-fuelled order and freedom in Christ |
Self-control is not the absence of desire but the governing of it under Christ’s headship. The Spirit doesn’t kill your will—He realigns it.
Simple Ways to Cultivate Self-Control (Spiritually and Practically) #
These are not rules to become spiritual. There are ways the Spirit may train your soul to partner with Christ’s life in you.
1. Start Little #
Don’t wait for mountain-top moments. Start by organising your bedroom, desk, or digital space. A cleaned space often clears the heart.
2. Be Punctaul #
Punctuality is not just politeness; it’s a stewardship of time.
“To every purpose there is a proper time and appropriate procedure…” — Ecclesiastes 8:6
“Make the very most of your time [on earth]…” — Ephesians 5:16 (AMP)
3. Be Disciplined #
Make daily or weekly schedules. Use reminders. Don’t drift through days and call it “spontaneity.” Discipline is the structure through which the Spirit can move freely.
4. Self-Denial #
Occasionally, say “no” to something you can have. Not to punish yourself, but to remind the soul: you are not the master—Christ is. Maybe skip that dessert, take the stairs, or fast from social media one day a week.
5. Tackle the Hardest Task First #
Avoiding tough responsibilities builds procrastination. Starting with the hardest task builds momentum and humility.
6. Accept Revision #
Constructive feedback is not criticism—it is an invitation to grow. Be teachable. Every correction is a tool in the Spirit’s hand to shape the Son in you.
7. Welcome Accountability #
Volunteer. Step up. Stretch beyond comfort. Responsibilities refine your habits and awaken dormant grace within.
Reflection #
All of this may sound practical—and it should. But let us not forget:
“Faith without [corresponding] works is dead.” — James 2:17 (AMP)
A faith that cannot influence your calendar, appetites, and habits is not Christ’s faith. Self-control is not just moral excellence—it is the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:23).
Meditate #
- 2 Peter 1:5–7 – Add to your faith… self-control
- 1 Corinthians 9:25 – Every athlete exercises self-control in all things
- Galatians 5:23 – Self-control is fruit of the Spirit
- Proverbs 25:28 – A person without self-control is like a broken wall
- Titus 2:11–12 – Grace teaches us to live self-controlled lives.
In Christ,
Shaliach.
