Begin with two minutes of stillness and silence before God.

Paul wraps up the list of the fruit of Spirit in Galatians 5 with the idea of “self-control.” While self-control is, by definition, the ability to control oneself, it is not simply dependent on oneself. Self-control comes from more than self. That’s the reason it is found in the fruit of the Spirit; it is a product of the Holy Spirit’s presence in our lives. Scripture also teaches us that self-control is influenced by the people we surround ourselves with.

Psalm 141 is one of the many prayers recorded by King David. In it we catch a glimpse of his desire for both inner purity and external discipline. As he seeks the self-control needed through God’s work in his life pay attention to how he acknowledges the importance of the influences around him.

David not only prays against a heart “inclined to evil,” he also prays against the company of men that would tempt the heart that way. Scripture frequently warns against the dangers of bad company: "Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character’" (1 Corinthians 15:33). When we surround ourselves with those who live carelessly, it becomes almost natural to fall into the same patterns.

In stark contrast, David welcomes correction from a righteous person. He even compares it to oil on his head, acknowledging that the rebuke of the Godly is not an attack but a blessing. Friends who walk in the Spirit are willing to challenge us when we stray. Their correction is an expression of love, helping us grow in self-control and spiritual maturity. Proverbs 27:6 reminds us, “Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.”

You have heard it said before, but we will say it again here: Show me your friends and I’ll show you your future. The company you keep will either corrupt or correct, which one would you rather? I don’t know about you, but I need the people who will call me out, in love, when my self-control becomes less controlled.

Take two minutes to reflect in silence.

Reflections:

• Name the top 3-5 influences in your life. Think beyond personal connections. Often authors, celebrities, podcasters influence us greatly.
  
• Are those influences more likely to corrupt or correct?
  
• Who/What do you need to allow more influence in your life? Less influence?
• Take some time to pray and ask God to open your eyes to who or what is influencing your life. Ask Him to show you where to put guard rails in your life to help fight against temptation and practice self-control.