Is anyone else getting a little sick of hearing about Tiger Woods’ affairs in the news? What used to be headlines about his victories in the golf world are now headlines about his loss(es) in the personal realm, due to his loss of self-control. I doubt that he had imagined things unfolding this way. It is sad to see someone who was once a role model fall so hard. He isn’t the first, and he won’t be the last.
Sad, or sickening, as it is, Tiger’s story should serve as a warning to all of us. Many of you have heard, or even uttered the words attributed to John Bradford; “There, but for the grace of God go I.” It is said that upon seeing several criminals being led to their execution, he remarked, “There but for the grace of God, goes John Bradford.” That is an honest recognition of human weakness and an expression of gratitude for God’s intervention in our lives.
However, that does not leave us without responsibility. We are accountable for our own actions. May we never forget that one of the Fruit of the Spirit is “self-control.” Thayer defines this as “the virtue of one who masters his desires and passions.” This is how we are supposed to act at all times. As 1 John 5:4 says, “For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world--our faith.” But, let us always be wary of pride. Just when we think we have “arrived,” we are in very dangerous straits. Remember Matthew 26:41, “Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak."
So, what are some tips for maintaining self-control? (1) Feed on God’s Word—it is powerful and the Spirit will use it in the moment of temptation. (2) Beware of temptation and do what you can to avoid it. (3) Live a life of prayer—if we are constantly conversing with God, we will be more likely to listen to the Spirit. And, remember, victory is found in Him!
In His grip,
Pastor Decker
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