3 Keys to Help Grow in Biblical Self-Discipline

Have you ever watched yourself completely lose it and wondered where that person came from? Biblical self-discipline feels impossible when we’re standing in the wreckage of our own emotional explosion, wondering how we went from zero to furious in 2.3 seconds.

In this eighth post exploring the nine characteristics of the fruit of the Holy Spirit, our guest writer Amy Elaine Martinez shares something that might surprise you: Biblical self-discipline isn’t about white-knuckling your way through life, but discovering how God’s power works through our intentional choices.

One of my favorite attributes of Amy’s writing is how she makes you instantly feel less alone in your struggles. She is authentically honest, filled with wisdom, and truly gifted in her writing. This piece is no different. So, join us as Amy Elaine reveals how your greatest weakness might actually be your invitation to experience God’s supernatural power in the most ordinary moments.

Our Super Power

Have you ever thought about the fruit of Galatians 5 being the believers’ superpower – our secret weapon when life gets overwhelming, and situations are beyond our control?  

Friend, if you’re in a personal relationship with Jesus, meaning He’s your Lord and Savior, you have a helper, the Holy Spirit, who lives inside of you. What an amazing gift; the best part is that the Fruit of the Spirit is how He helps us help ourselves.  

Maybe you’ve been feeling a little out of control, emotionally unbalanced, irked beyond reason, without any explanation. I’m raising my hand over here, saying, “me too.” 

But guess what?  

We have access to some supernatural power you might not have considered part of your arsenal in the fight against chaos, confusion, cheeky comments, really any circumstance that threatens your well-being. Surprisingly, God gave us something to put an end to emotional outbursts, fits of rage, and our untamed tongues, too. He’s not caught off guard by our lack of self-discipline. In His wisdom, He made a way for us to live in step with the Holy Spirit. The funny thing about self-discipline is that it has nothing to do with us and everything to do with God. Without Him, we can do nothing. (John 15:5) In and of ourselves, we are incapable of being on our best behavior all the time. ( For more on being well-intentioned ) 

Yet, according to Matthew 19:26, the Bible says, “with God all things are possible.”   

Fortunately, God gave us the Holy Spirit to help in our time of need, which for most of us, is on.the.daily.  

As believers, we have the superpower of BIBLICAL SELF-DISCIPLINE.  

Maybe you’ve never thought of it as a weapon, but it is, and I’m going to show you how to wield it like a sword and win in the never-ending battle to control yourself in every situation. But first, you must be willing. Willing to lay down your weapons of mass destruction – snarky remarks, prayer requests that sound more like gossip in disguise, jealousy, comparison, and the like. If we want to follow Jesus and actually be like Him, those things have no place in our mouths or on our tongues. (Ephesians 4:29-32) 

By growing in biblical self-discipline, we become more like Jesus.  

Self-discipline is defined as the ability to control oneself, especially one’s emotions and desires, or the expression of them in one’s behavior, especially in tricky situations. In a biblical sense, self-discipline helps us to stay the course, keep the enemy at bay, say “no” to temptation, and set ourselves apart from the world’s ways. Self-discipline is less about control and more about surrendering. We surrender our ways to His. 

Self-discipline marks us as a true follower of Christ and sets the boundaries by which we live the holy (set-apart for God) life He’s called us to exemplify. (1 Peter 2:9-10) 

Here’s 3 Verses to Help You Grow in Biblical Self-Discipline 

“For it is written: “Be holy because I am holy.” 1 Peter 1:16 NIV 

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12:2 ESV 

“Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other’ as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts…” Colossians 3:12-17 ESV 

Particularly in a world gone mad, self-discipline makes us stand out amongst a crowd of people who are easily offended and often cannot (or will not) behave themselves. Biblical self-discipline changes atmospheres and wins people over without sharing the Gospel outright. It’s so counterintuitive to the world’s ways, many do not know what to do when they come up against it. And that, my friend, is the secret sauce; our Spirit-led, self-disciplined lives baffle the masses, leaving them scratching their heads in disbelief. 

“How does she do that? I want that. Wow!” 

“She’s so rational. She’s kind. She’s in control! Woah!” 

Sounds good, huh? Yes, ma’am, I’ll take some of that with a side of humility to go. Friend, biblical self-discipline means we go low. We humble ourselves, put others first, and let the Spirit lead even when it’s hard to rein in our emotions.  

More on Biblical Self-Discipline 

Wrapping up the list in Galatians 5:23, self-discipline is likely mentioned last because it binds everything together. Without self-discipline, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, and gentleness lose some of their wonder-working power. We simply can’t share all.the.fruit without self-discipline. It’s not greater than the others, but it’s paramount to show the fullness of the fruit we’ve been given.  

Self-discipline is usually the fruit most people would rather not talk about. It feels beyond reach. While self-discipline seems intimidating, this superpower isn’t about us, it’s about Jesus in us. The transforming power of the Holy Spirit changes us. His “to be able” power is what makes us able to keep from losing control in chaotic situations where we’re under pressure and likely to lash out. Often, pride gets in the way of our best efforts to stay in control of ourselves, but self-discipline comes to our rescue to win the day. 

Spirit-Led Solutions 

HOW TO GROW in Biblical Self-Discipline: 

GO LOW: Surrender your will for God’s. Be flexible. Understand the bigger picture of spiritual warfare instead of overreacting. Be thoughtful. Pause in His presence before you panic or pounce. Be kind. Elevate others by putting their needs before your wants. Be humble. (Galatians 6:9) 

GO SLOW: Redirect your emotions by counting to ten and breathe deep. Be calm. Pray in the Spirit as you process what is being said to you in the moment. Be prayerful. Observe your surroundings and make an exit plan if necessary. Be aware. (Psalm 37:7) 

GO GLOW: Wait before responding to a text, a call, or an accusation. Be patient. End combative conversations with, “I’ll get back to you at a later time.” Be courteous. Remember you have this incredible, God-given superpower and use it! Be mindful. Be radiant. (Psalm 34:5) 

When we think of self-discipline as our superpower, we create lasting change in our lives, bringing chaos to a close. (For more on making lasting change) 

A Prayer for Self-Discipline

Father God, thank you for giving me a Helper in the Holy Spirit so I can control my reactions and responses. May I see the fruit of self-discipline as the superpower it is, bringing it into every situation I encounter. May people get a glimpse of You when things get tricky or tense. Lord, help me remember to go low and slow so I can glow for Your glory. Amen. 

Wait! Before You Go!

Your joy isn’t dependent on your circumstances. As a matter of fact, it’s something far deeper — more meaningful and everlasting than happiness. The encouragement I share in this place and on all my social media channels equips you to live with that kind of hope and joy every day.

I’d love to be a part of your journey toward a deeper faith. One that nourishes your heart and helps you experience the fullness of God’s love.

You can start by joining thousands of others who are discovering God, their identity as His child, and how to live with confidence, joy, peace, and HOPE! Just fill out the form below!

Want to Catch Up on the Whole Series?

1. 9 Fruits of the Holy Spirit: Timeless Gifts for Your Messy Life
2. Love God Love People the Way You Were Meant To (Before Exhaustion Hits)
3. How the Joy of the Lord is Our Strength
4. Peace That Surpasses All Understanding: A Gift in the Chaos
5. Patience in the Bible: Hope for When You Are Anxious, Worried, and Stressed
6. Why Kindness in the Bible Comes From Surrendering, Not Trying Harder