Charles Stanley - The Battle for Self-Control

Picture a tug-of-war contest. Two sides struggle against each other, straining to gain control. Can both sides win? Of course not—that’s the nature of the game. In this message, Dr. Stanley sheds light on the internal conflict each of us must face: the battle between obeying God or indulging our flesh. It’s a high-stakes struggle with only one winner. But as children of God we're not left on our own—with the Holy Spirit on our side, we’re each equipped with self-control. Learn how this fruit of the Spirit tips the scales in your favor.

Is there any area of your life that is out of control? Perhaps it’s finances, moral issues, relationships, attitudes, habits, gossip, or laziness. A lack of self-control in any part of our lives does not fit who we are in Christ. His desire is that we live in full surrender to Him so that His Spirit can produce in us the fruit of self-control.

If we are in a tug of war with God for control over our lives, we’ll experience tension, stress, and unhappiness because we are at odds with Him. Anytime we let our desires and impulses rule our lives, there will be no rest, peace, or joy.