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Plant seeds of wisdom today Take the next 31 or so breaths slowly and reflect deeply on your life. I hope these words help you grow in you the most valuable treasure in life: wisdom. Wisdom grows imperceptibly but flourishes like a mighty oak, standing the test of time. ​ ​ Read in your browser. ​

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"Like a city wall whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control." ​
(Proverbs 25:28 NIV)
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I used to pray and plead that God would take away my selfish sexual desire. What I didn't realize at the time was that God was inviting me to something far greater: the hard labor of developing self-control. You grow resilient only through lifting and intentionally working on the foundational character stones of faith, integrity, courage, love, and true knowledge.
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Through joyful surrender to God and taking courageous action I've seen God develop that last fruit of the Spirit, self-control in my life. Only by building a strong wall will you be able to withstand the attacks of the Evil One.
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Some observations of Proverbs 25:28.

• You are responsible for your own life. You’re the city.
• Life is war. You are under attack.
• Attack can come from any direction. Self-control must be comprehensive.
• Self-control, the ability to say no or to manage my emotions and urges for immediate pleasure is defensive and protective.
• There may not be an immediate pay off, but self-control allows for the internal life, other virtues, to grow.
• A compromise in self-control leads to destruction. Sometimes the timeline is quick, sometimes the seeds of destruction takes years to bear fruit, but they always do.
• Your wall doesn’t determine your worth, but it is critical for your flourishing and safety.
• In times of peace, prepare for war by growing in self-control.

Quotes

Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest​

Leon Trotsky, Quoted in Michael Walzer, Just and Unjust Wars: A Moral Argument with Historical Illustrations​

Questions

What is an area in your life where you most need to grow in self-control?
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What lies or beliefs do you need to surrender to God? Are you willing to surrender your struggle and any strongholds to im today?

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How can you glory in God’s love and strength today?

(Use these questions as a journal prompt and to guide your prayers this week)

Endnote

In turns out God is interested in your resilience, not just your avoidance of sin.

Live wisely,

Josh

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