“A person without self-control is like a city with broken-down walls.” — Proverbs 25:28
This verse likens us to a city. It’s certainly a powerful metaphor; we don’t often see it used in the Bible. I think a few themes from this verse are worth spending some time on. They’ll help us understand what can happen when we don’t exercise self-control.
As I said, in the first part of this metaphor we are the city. The original audience would have no doubt thought of themselves as the cherished city of Jerusalem. It was one worth protecting and fortifying. One whose walls could defend and protect those inside. Take a minute and envision a city you believe is the best. Is it worth defending? To what length would you go to make that happen? Remember, that’s you, cherished and valued.
Good Fruit
The next part of the metaphor reminds us that a city without walls has no defense. It is vulnerable and open to attack. That is us without self-control. As Christians, we believe that self-control is a Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Without it, we are like a city with broken walls; plus, we’re vulnerable to the enemy and exposed to temptation. We become broken and crushed (Proverbs 15:13) as our defenses are down.
To summarize, applying the understanding and wisdom from the Bible will fortify and protect our souls. It will also build and increase this particular Fruit of the Spirit, enabling us to thrive. Additionally, we can resist temptation and attacks from the evil one.
My challenge for you this week is to reflect on areas of self-control in your life that need improvement. As you grow in them, you will surely flourish in the ways God wants you to.
Posted in A Word from the Pastor