Self Control

Audio Recording Self Control Rev. Scott Strickman Download Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman Sermon Series: ProverbsProverbs 16:32; 17:27; 25:28; 29:11 (ESV) 16:32 Whoever is slow to anger is better than the mighty,     and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.17:27 Whoever restrains his words has knowledge,     and he who has a cool spirit is a man of understanding.25:28 A man without self-control     is like a city broken into and left without walls.29:11 A fool gives full vent to his spirit,     but a wise man quietly holds it back.Sermon Outline Self control is a product of wisdom working in a person’s life and a mark of those who are wise.1. Mastery“he who rules his spirit”2. Superficial Mastery“than he who takes a city”3. True Mastery“Whoever is slow to anger is better than the mighty”Prayer of Confession We have moved you from your proper place and our lives are disordered. We admit we have been ruled by desires, passions, feelings, confused thoughts and the opinions of others. We have lost control of ourselves and have acted harmfully. Forgive us for every sin. Forgive us for using your patience as an opportunity for more self-serving choices, rather than recognize the opportunities you have given us to turn to you and order our lives under the rule of Christ. We marvel that you are slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. Thank you for the forgiveness extended to us through Christ. Amen.Questions for ReflectionIs there a difference between self-control and will power?  How does self-control work?What areas of your life do you have difficulty controlling?  Why?  What impact is this having?What are some things you are trying to control or are taking responsibility for that you shouldn’t?  What are some areas of responsibility that you are neglecting?How does putting God in the wrong place create an imbalance, making it impossible to keep things under control?  Why is God being “slow to anger, abounding in steadfast love” something that points to His mastery?Where do you see restraint, wisdom and power in Jesus willingly going to the cross?  What were those who were there likely seeing/perceiving?How is self-control a “fruit of the Spirit”?  What about the work of the Holy Spirit helps believers get their lives under control?What does it mean to walk in the Spirit, pray in the Spirit, be led by the Spirit?  How does faith in Christ help us to choose wisely?