Let’s be real, sometimes self-control doesn’t feel like a gift, it feels like a prison.
It’s like having an inner voice screaming, “Don’t do it!” while every part of your flesh whispers, “Just one time won’t hurt.” I’ve had those moments. Moments where the old me whispers loud:
“Light it up.”
“Take the shot.”
“Go out. Dance. Be free.”
And I’d be lying if I said it didn’t feel tempting. But now, I have something I didn’t have before, conviction. Not guilt. Not shame. Conviction. That God-given warning system that says, “You’re better than this. You’ve been healed too much. You have grown too far. You have walked too long. Do not throw it all away for a few minutes of fleshly satisfaction.” But conviction doesn’t always feel good.
Sometimes, it feels like I’m missing out. I feel like I’m chained to this “good girl” version of me. Meanwhile, the wild side is still in there. It is screaming to be let out for just one more night. And in those moments, I ask myself: Is this discipline a blessing… or a burden?
The truth? It’s both.
It’s a burden when you see others doing what you used to do. You feel like you’re the only one fighting to stay holy. It’s a burden when temptation looks like freedom and obedience feels like isolation.
Your flesh begs for a taste of the old life. However, your spirit is too full of truth to go back.
But oh… it’s also a blessing.
It’s a blessing to wake up with peace instead of regret.
It’s a blessing to know who you are and not settle for attention that costs your soul.
It’s a blessing to feel that nudge from God saying, “I’m proud of you for choosing Me.”
Self-control isn’t about being perfect. It’s about knowing your worth and protecting your purpose.
It’s not about being boring, it’s about being free in a different way. Free from shame. Free from patterns that kept you broken. Free from needing validation in places that only left you empty. So yes, self-control hurts sometimes. It costs you the high, the thrill, the fantasy. But what you gain in return? Wholeness. Clarity. Favor. Protection. Purpose.
The next time you’re in that moment, remember this. When the battle between flesh and spirit feels overwhelming, you are not weak for wanting it. You are strong for walking away from it. And that kind of strength? That’s not a burden. That’s a blessing.
🙏 A Prayer for Strength
“Lord, I thank You for giving me the strength. This strength helps me fight against temptations. These temptations come for my peace and purpose. Sometimes, it feels heavy to say no when everything in me wants to say yes. But I know You’ve called me to more. Help me to walk in obedience, even when it’s hard. Remind me that self-control isn’t punishment, it’s protection. Keep my spirit strong and my heart anchored in You. And when I fall, remind me of Your grace and help me rise again. Thank You for never giving up on me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
These are a few things that help me stay grounded when temptation tries to pull me back:
- Battlefield of the Mind by Joyce Meyer – This book changed the way I think about temptation. It also influenced how I handle emotional battles. A must-read for anyone learning to renew their mind.
- Prayer Journal for Women: 52 Weeks to Strengthen Your Faith – Journaling my prayers keeps me accountable and connected. I love that it includes weekly prompts and space to reflect on what God is teaching me.
- Be Still and Know Devotional Mug – A simple reminder each morning that peace comes from presence, not perfection.
If this message spoke to something real in you, don’t keep it to yourself.
💌 Share it with a sister or friend who’s struggling too.
💬 Leave a comment below if you’ve ever felt like self-control was both a battle and a blessing.
Let’s build a space where honesty meets healing, and where women fighting the good fight can stand together. Stay strong. Stay rooted. Stay real. You are not alone, and you are not going back.
Holy mess 