Choose Self-Control

Bible Study

Proverbs 25:28 ESV

It’s somewhat difficult for modern man to understand the importance of the city wall in the ancient world.

We’ve studied it before but it’s important to reiterate that in the ancient world their best means of protection was having a strong city wall.

In Proverbs 25:28 we are told, “A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls.”

At first glance we might wonder how personal self-control can be compared to a protective wall.

Simply put without self-control humans are without a defense and are open to attack. Self-control acts as our greatest defense. That’s because having self-control serves as a protective mechanism from negative influences and from being tempted to act irrationally.

Think of it this way, if you are under attack verbally from someone and you let your guard down chances are your opponent will be aware you are vulnerable and they will attack.

Even in a debate setting you must keep your guard up.

The instant you let your guard down (the wall) your opponent will seize the opportunity and attack.

Even in a discussion in a personal setting your opponent will use the opportunity to his interest. Keeping your guard up and being ready for an attack is akin to utilizing your hands to protect your face.

If two people are at odds verbally it really is a battle.

Let’s say person one wants pink dishes for dinner while person 2 wants orange dishes. Both are equally passionate about the color of the plates.

Neither is willing to submit to the other.

They must both present a convincing argument why their chosen color is the best choice.

The person who wants pink dishes explains pink is the color of the beautiful flamingo. This elegant majestic bird. This bird is so balanced it can stand on one leg for several hours without moving. The pink flamingo represents love and devotion. Flamingos even mate strategically in long-terms relationships.

The person who chose orange makes a strong case by depicting the tiger and it’s mighty power. The tiger is strong but agile and can run up to 40 miles per hour. The color orange makes it possible for the tiger to camouflage his presence in grasslands to hide from their prey. The whiskers of the tiger are one of their greatest weapons. The whiskers are powerful sensory organs that act as a guide. They navigate this big cat, help them to track prey, act as a guide for their body and limbs, they help the tiger to find food and water, and even communicate their mood.

So…which will it be? Pink or Orange dishes?

Both flamingo and tiger have advantages when it comes to self control. Both know how to keep their guard up in very different ways.

The question is…how do YOU keep your guard up?

Deborah

acrazyjourney.com

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