2 Peter 1:6
6and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness,
Peter is listing the traits and disciplines that a mature christian should have. The next one is self control. There are plenty of options other than being in control.
Romans 7:20 says “Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it.” We all struggle with doing things we don’t want to do. All the addictions come to mind. There are different levels of this. Some people are seriously addicted and their lives are dominated by it. Others have more control, but it’s at a nuisance level.
Some versions use the word, temperance. This brings to mind the temperance movements in our history. This was the government banning alcohol. With this thought, the christian isn’t to be addicted or controlled by substances.
2 Corinthians 4:4 speaks of the god of this world blinding minds. This is mainly speaking of unbelievers, but it can also happen to believers. If we aren’t in the bible, prayer and church, then we are being influenced by our culture. I think of Bob Dylan’s lyric, “You’re gonna have to serve somebody…” Much of that is contrary to Christ. Being under the influence of the world is not having the self control spoken of.
Lord, help us have self control. Help us not to be under the rule of anything or the influence of our culture.