The following Report was submitted by Ambassador League Agent Elizabeth G. during the 2007-2008 League.
Word Study: Self-government
Recently my Mom had me do an assignment for government class. I had to look up the presidential cabinet and see how department could apply to me personally. When first trying to tackle this assignment I was rather upset. How could things of the government actually apple to my life. As I was studying the different departments, rather reluctantly, I realized that each different department was teaching me a different aspect of self-government. For example, the Department of the Treasury taught me about responsibility with my money. Self-government, also known as self-control, is something that will help you make even the smallest decisions and is needed every moment of your life.
Self-control restraint exercised over one's own impulses, emotions, or desires
Galatians 5:22-24
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. And those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.
Like the definition states, self-control can help one conquer even fleshly desires and passions. This verse just confirms that fact. Self-control is also, as we find out from this verse, one of the fruits of the Spirit. The self-government or self-control that you show is the result of following the Holy Spirit. Stating that fact, we can also come to the conclusion that we can only obtain true self-government with the help of the Holy Spirit.
Titus 1:7-9
For a bishop must be blameless, as a steward of God, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, but hospitable, a lover of what is good, sober-minded, just, holy, self-controlled, holding fast the faithful word as he has been taught, that he may be able, by sound doctrine, both to exhort and convict those who contradict.
The requirements of a pastor, or bishop, are listed in this verse. Among the many things listed we see self-control among them. However, I believe that self-control is the greatest of all the character traits listed. If you look at the traits the only way one can obtain them is with self-control and self-government.
The assignment that my Mom had me do really helped. As I looked at all the areas of government I realized the lack of self-government in my own life. I began to keep strict records of the money I was spending, which has really helped me when shopping with my friends. I also dug out my planner and began religiously writing down my schedule. There are so many areas in which I have benefited from just doing that one simple government study. Now I would like to challenge you. Look up the Presidential Cabinet and look at all the Departments where government is applied. Read and search the Bible on how to govern yourself. It will be a great benefit to you!
