Self-Control 1

Proverbs 3:34

The other day while watching a History Channel special about prophecy with many of the famous Christian leaders being quoted in regard to the story, I thought of how many of these leaders had gained notoriety and influence within the faith but are now laid low with disgrace, scandal and controversy, their authority and power now questionable. While there is nothing wrong with gaining influence in the name of religion and there is nothing wrong with garnering fame and popularity because of the good works a person may do, we must be careful how we conduct ourselves as children of God.

Proverbs gives a simple warning to the faithful. Who is lifted up? How are mockers handled?

It is easy to understand that those who are humble in their faith will be lifted up by God for their good attitude and holy behavior, but where does mockery come in? One concept that strikes me is the attitudes that many Christians have toward unbelievers and non-Christians. So many of the faithful keep their faith as a personal gift, hording it, clinging to it with selfish spiritual greed.

We can come to look at the un-churched and non-Christian as someone to be despised and reviled. We can come to a point where we use our faith and belief in Christ as something to mock others with.

We know the truth. We have salvation and hope. But these other people are simply fools headed for damnation. Unfortunately, some Christians can find a secret – and not so secret – delight in this idea.

But God lifts up the humble. God expects us to exercise some self-control, restraining ourselves from becoming arrogant and pushy in our faith. We are certainly to have confidence and assurance in our own salvation, but that is not something to lord over others with.

Rather, we should be self-controlled in our faith and exercise mercy and compassion, even to the most ardent of un-believers. It is not our place to be vain or self-righteous, but caring and loving and forgiving.

DAILY CHALLENGE: Is there a part of your religious behavior that needs to be controlled so that you might give glory to God and mercy to others?