“A person without self-control is like a city with broken-down walls.” Proverbs 25:28 NLT
In ancient times cities were surrounded by a wall. The walls provided protection from wild animals, enemies, and strangers that might be a threat to the well-being of the residents of the city. The walls also offered boundaries for the residents to maintain a separation for whatever is outside.
The walls provided safety, security and comfort. When the walls were broken down the city and its’ inhabitants were vulnerable.
This weeks’ Proverb tells us that self-control is more than just restraint, it builds a wall of protection in our lives. Without self-control our safety, security and comfort are at risk.
Self-control means controlling those impulses that we may be tempted to act upon. The impulses may be in the areas of lust, finances, food, or reckless activities. Impulses that, if acted upon, could bring harmful consequences to us. Self-control is the wall of protection from those consequences.
This week, be careful to recognize impulses and exercise self-control.
