22/11/2025
How Strong is Your Self Control?
Self-control is one of the most powerful yet underrated virtues that shapes the quality of our lives and marriages. It determines how we respond under pressure, how we manage emotions, how we speak, and how we handle temptations. The Bible calls it a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23), while psychology calls it a core component of emotional intelligence and a predictor of long-term success.
But how strong is your self-control?
And more importantly—what does that strength (or lack of it) produce in your life, marriage, and walk with God?
Negative Traits of Weak Self-Control:
When self-control is lacking, negative patterns emerge.
1. Emotional Reactivity
Outbursts, defensiveness, silent treatment, impulsive decisions, or quick anger.
2. Poor Communication
Interrupting, shouting, stonewalling, passive-aggressive behavior, or shutting down.
3. Addictive or Impulsive Behaviors
Overspending, p**n, alcohol, gambling, impulsive purchases, or unhealthy coping.
4. Inconsistency
Difficulty keeping promises, commitments, and personal boundaries.
5. Relational Damage
In marriage, weak self-control creates insecurity, emotional instability, and lack of trust.
6. Sin Vulnerability
James teaches that desire gives birth to sin—and lack of self-control is the gateway.
Psychology of Self-Control (Why It Is Hard):
Psychologists explain that self-control is linked to:
1. Emotional Conditioning
Past trauma, stress, or childhood environments may weaken impulse regulation.
2. Cognitive Overload
When stressed or overwhelmed, the brain defaults to instinct rather than wisdom.
3. Delayed Gratification Strength
People with strong self-control tolerate discomfort to achieve long-term goals.
4. Habit Loops
We behave in patterns. Without intentional change, emotional reactions become automatic.
5. Lack of Self-Awareness
If you don’t understand your triggers, you can’t manage your responses.
Read more : https://www.comebroken.co.uk/post/how-strong-is-your-self-control