The English used to be famed for their ‘stiff upper lip’; self-control was probably the virtue of which the nation was most proud. Whilst this may have led to repression and suppression, there is much to be said for learning self-control, which is listed as one of the fruit of the Spirit. (Gal 5:22-23) The current tendency to do whatever feels good at the moment with no thought for the long-term or consideration for others is a recipe for disaster.

Self-control means we do not yield to every whim and fancy which dances before our eyes; we pause before we speak or act. Self-control means we do not stamp our feet like the toddler or throw ourselves down on the floor in a paddy every time we don’t get our way (tempting though this may be!) Ultimately, we need God to be in control more than we need to be in control; we need to be soaked in His word and led by His Spirit so that we do not give in to temptation and follow the way of self.