(Prov 25:28 NKJV) Whoever has no rule over his own spirit Is like a city broken down, without walls.
This morning we get back to our series entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” Back in chapter 16 Solomon said something very similar, saying: “He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit, than he who captures a city” (v32). When we read the Bible we must remember the setting. We have to take into account who is writing, to whom, for what purpose, and etc. A scripture can never mean what it never meant. That is why I always attempt to share with you what I believe it meant (back then), before we seek to apply what it means to us today. As we read this scripture we must remember that Solomon was writing around 950 B.C., as the king of Israel. This was a time when successful leaders led by the sword. Kings and kingdoms were challenged regularly. Therefore, kings were wise to maintain vast armies and fortified cities. Kingdoms were expanded by conquering cities (which often required breaching the walls) and territories. The military leaders who were courageous enough to lead men into brutal and bloody close-in combat were considered mighty warriors and were celebrated openly. For example, people danced for David when he killed Goliath.
This is the backdrop upon which we read Solomon’s words. In a land and time where security depended on might and skill in warfare Solomon teaches that the greatest battle is the battle within. While conquering others is great, conquering yourself is greater. Greater than taking a city, if you can learn to govern yourself, to control your own temper, and to rule over your own emotions, then you have won the battle within. Bishop Noel Jones preached a message entitled, “The Enemy IN-A Me!” In his message he spoke of the challenges we, as believers, face when we are attempting to let go of the old man (and nature), in order to lay hold of the new.
Self-control, especially where our temper is concerned, should be our ultimate goal. Back in chapter 14 Solomon warned us against losing our temper. He said, “Short-tempered people do foolish things” (v.17) and “A hot temper shows great foolishness” (v.29). A different translation of our verse today reads “A person without self-control is like a city with broken-down walls.” Not only is the greatest battle the battle within, but those who lose that battle leave themselves wide-open; susceptible to attacks from the enemy, and believe me, satan has no problem with attacking the defenseless. Many marriages, careers, relationships, and destinies have been destroyed by a lack of self-control.
So what does this mean to you today? A few things:
1. Winning the battle within (for self-control) is superior to conquest. Countless people have lost their jobs, marriages, children, friends, and health, because they lost their temper.
2. If you lead yourself well, then God will open the doors of opportunity for you to lead others and to make the impact in their lives He desires for your to make. But it all starts with you.
3. Look in the mirror this morning and ask yourself: “Am I in control of myself? Am I capable of controlling my anger, temper, lusts, illicit desires, and wayward thoughts?” If the answer is NO, then it is time for you to spend some time in prayer and study concerning this. If you lose control, even for a few minutes, it might cost your everything!
Closing Confession: Father, I thank You for the sobering reminder this morning that I must develop the ability to control myself. And by Your grace I declare that I will. Many believers have wrecked their lives over a few minutes of uncontrolled passion. I declare, right now, by faith, that I will do everything I need to do – developing in the Word and in prayer – in order for me to rule over my own spirit with confidence. I refuse to allow my emotions or lusts to derail me from my destiny. With Your power and Your grace, I control myself and I am able to be used of You for Your glory! I win the war within today, and every day! In Jesus’ name. Amen!
This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!
