Controlled
After washing his face, he came back out, keeping himself under control. Then he ordered, “Bring out the food.” Genesis 43:31 (NLT)
How important it is for a leader—and for every believer—to know how to maintain self-control in life. It is not about controlling or dominating others, but about controlling and mastering oneself. In this passage, Joseph, the governor of Egypt, was overwhelmed with emotion upon seeing his brothers. He had to step away alone to get his emotions under control before returning to make decisions. Although he later wept openly before his brothers (which was healing), this moment teaches us that there is a proper time and place for everything, and self-control is essential.
- Self-control is self-discipline.
The Bible calls it self-control, temperance, or self-discipline. In 2 Timothy 1:7 (NLT), Paul reminds us: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.”
- It is a fruit of the Spirit.
Self-control is evidence that the Holy Spirit is at work within us (Galatians 5:23, NLT). Its opposite—impulsiveness—is a work of the flesh. We cannot achieve true self-control by sheer willpower; we need the help of the Spirit.
- Self-control allows us to think clearly.
When we are “controlled,” like Joseph, we can think clearly and make wise decisions. A fool vents all his anger, “but the wise quietly hold it back.” (Proverbs 29:11, NLT)
- Self-control protects us from sin.
Self-control keeps us from falling into sin, especially sins of the tongue. It prevents us from saying hurtful things or making impulsive decisions that we later regret.
- Self-control protects others.
Our lack of control always hurts those near us. But our self-control protects them and allows us to be a blessing in our home, workplace, and church.
The life of Joseph shows us that true power does not lie in the authority we have over others but in the authority we have over ourselves. Self-control does not mean not feeling; it means managing our emotions with the help of the Holy Spirit so we can honor God and make wise decisions.
After washing his face, he came back out, keeping himself under control. Then he ordered, “Bring out the food.” Genesis 43:31 (NLT)
Think About It:
- In what recent situation did you lose control and say or do something you now regret?
- In what specific area do you need to ask the Holy Spirit to develop the fruit of “self-control” in you this week?
- How can you follow Joseph’s example of stepping aside for a moment to “get control” before making an important decision?