How to Practice Self-Control in Faith Based Recovery

Self-control is a promise to those who follow Jesus on the straight and narrow road In Scripture (2Timothy 1:7 – beloe) it’s defined as “a sound mind”. It’s the ability to govern our thoughts, emotions, and actions in alignment with God’s will, even when faced with temptation or adversity. Through the guidance of Scripture and the strength provided by the Holy Spirit, we can cultivate this vital promise of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). This post explores how to practice self-control, grounded in the wisdom of the Bible, and offers practical steps to integrate it into your recovery and your Christian life.

The Biblical Foundation of Self-Control

Self-control is not merely a human effort but a gift from God, developed through reliance on His strength and wisdom. The Bible provides clear guidance on how to nurture this quality.

2 Timothy 1:7
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
This verse reminds us that God equips us with a sound mind, enabling us to make wise choices. In recovery, self-control begins with trusting that God has already provided the strength to overcome fear and impulsive behavior.

Proverbs 25:28
“Whoever has no rule over his own spirit is like a city broken down, without walls.”
Without self-control, we are vulnerable to temptation and chaos, much like a defenseless city. Practicing self-control builds spiritual walls that protect us from destructive habits and influences.

1 Corinthians 10:13
“No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.”
This promise assures us that God provides a way out of every temptation. Self-control involves looking for and choosing that escape route, trusting in God’s faithfulness.

Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.”
Self-control is God’s promise as well as a fruit of His Holy Spirit, cultivated by walking on the “straight and narrow road” that Jesus commands us to. During recovery and going forward when you fully recover, it means surrendering and submitting to God’ in all ways. In John 14:15 Jesus says, “If you love Me, keep My commandments.”

Practical Steps to Practice Self-Control

Pray for Strength and Guidance
Begin each day by asking God, in Jesus name, for His power and strength to resist temptation and make Biblically based choices. Prayer aligns your heart with God’s will and invites the Holy Spirit to guide your actions.

Meditate on Scripture
Regularly study and memorize Bible verses about self-control. Reflecting on God’s Word renews your mind and equips you to combat negative thoughts or impulses. It also grows your faith and heals your flesh.

Identify Triggers and Plan Ahead
Recognize situations, emotions, or environments that have challenged your self-control in the past. Create a plan to avoid or manage these triggers, leaning on God’s wisdom to navigate them.

Practice Pause and Reflect
Before acting on an impulse, pause to pray and thenreflect. Ask yourself, “Does this align with God’s will for my life?” This moment of intentionality can prevent regrettable decisions.

Seek Accountability
Surround yourself with a faith-based community and a Recovery Coach that supports your recovery. Share your struggles and victories with trusted individuals who can pray for you and hold you accountable.

Celebrate Small Victories
Acknowledge and thank God for moments when you exercise self-control. Each step forward strengthens your resolve and deepens your reliance on Him. It also changes your brain to make it a habit.

Reflective Coaching Questions for Self-Evaluation

To help you grow in self-control and deepen your faith-based recovery, consider these reflective questions. Take time to journal your responses or discuss them with your Recovery Coach, a trusted believing mentor, or a born again accountability partner.

1. What specific situations or emotions make it hardest for me to practice self-control, and how can I invite God into those moments?
2. Which Bible verse about self-control resonates most with me, and how can I apply it to my daily recovery journey?
3. Who in my faith community can I reach out to for accountability and support in cultivating self-control?
4. What small victory in practicing self-control can I celebrate today, and how can I thank God for His strength in that moment?

Thought

Practicing self-control is a journey of faith, rooted in God’s Word and empowered by His Holy Spirit. As you lean on Scripture, prayer, your Recovery Coach, and fellowship, you’ll find the strength to overcome temptation and grow in Jesus’ likeness. Let Proverbs 25:28 inspire you to build strong spiritual walls, protecting the city of your heart for God’s glory. “Whoever has no rule over his own spirit is like a city broken down, without walls.”

Have a blessed rest of your day practicing self-control!

Recover ONCE… Be FREE for LIFE!