ADAR
BET 19
Self-Control
“…add
to your … knowledge self-control.” (2Pet 1:5-6 ISR)
The destruction and loss of an individual’s
‘self-control’[1]
is the first step towards a continual habit, an addiction or obsession. Addiction is defined as “the state of being
enslaved to a habit or practice or to something that is psychologically or
physically habit-forming, as narcotics, to such an extent that its cessation
causes severe trauma.”[2]
In our 21st century world, the list of possibilities is endless. We know that drug addiction has been around for centuries, hand in hand with alcohol abuse. Now, however, we also find everything from food, excessive spending, sex, tobacco, and one that I have been accused of: coffee. While doing some research for this essay, I discovered a new addiction that I had never heard of, digital addiction, which would include smart phones, tablets, video games and even FaceBook.
I can remember many years ago, a Pentecostal preacher telling me that sin – in its many forms – can be enjoyable and fun. At one time, this man was part and parcel of the western bar scene, and he admitted, there was something enjoyable about getting oneself all dolled up on a Saturday night to mosey on down to your favorite club. For an extended period of time, this was his addiction. Even though this man knew the Word of Elohim – he was descended from a long line of Pentecostal preachers – had knowledge of the need for self-control and obedience, during that time period he chose not to take heed. Now, he is a powerful man of God and dedicated to serving our Creator.
Knowledge – our previous building block – without self-control is chaos and ruination. How does such a destructive and detrimental life style happen? For some, it is the attempt to fill a huge void in their lives with something, or someone, a void that only the Creator can completely fill. For others, it is a total lack of self-control, even to the point of disobedience and rebellion, as in the case of our preacher friend. Regardless of the cause, breaking free of the bondage and addiction is not always easy. The first step is to recognize and admit that the place where you are is not where you need to be. There are those who are attempting to break free from a life style of substance abuse, and may have need professional help. Please folks, do not let misplaced pride stop you from reaching out to receive the help you need.
As we make the decision to add the ‘block’ of self-control to the building we are putting together, there are certain questions we can ask ourselves when faced with different choices. WHO does this honor? Would my going off in this direction reflect the image of Messiah Yeshua that I should be revealing? Is the option that I am facing permissible in the eyes of Torah? Will I have peace about this choice when standing before my Father? Am I being a good example of what a Torah obedient life is all about?
“Let your moderation be
known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.” (Phi
4:5 KJV)
©2022
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