Because of God's Grace

Because of God’s Grace
I Peter 4:7 - 10

The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. I Peter 4:7-10 NIV

Self-control is an essential component of grace and a key to success in every area of life.

The lack of self-control leads to bad habits. Bad habits lead to bad decisions. Bad decisions lead to failure.

Three to learn and practice self-control

1. Expect More from Yourself

No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it. 1 Corinthians 10:13 NIV

For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, Titus 2:11-12 NIV

Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:12-14 NIV

2. Expect More From The Future.

"Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that lasts forever." 1 Corinthians 9:25 NIV

Your steadiness today makes his blessings possible at the right moment.

If you believe in the goodness of God and His promises in both this life and the life to come, you will find it easier to practice self-control.

3. Expect More from God.

Salvation is not just to forgive you for being a sinful person. He will change you into the image of His Son.

The Lord is near all who call on him. Psalm 145:18

Though my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will receive me. Psalm 27:10

Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you. Hebrews 13:5

I am with you always, to the very end of the age. Matthew 28:20

>Expect God to purify you.

>Expect God to be patient with you.

>Expect God to empower you.

Self-control prepares you for what God wants to do in your life. The grace of God teaches us how to be self-controlled.