Self-Control Through Discipline: The Irony of True Freedom

“Freedom is not the ability to do what you want, but the power to do what you ought.”

In an age that celebrates doing whatever feels right, biblical freedom presents a compelling paradox: true freedom is found not in the absence of restriction, but in the presence of Spirit-empowered self-control. Galatians 5:13 reminds us, “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.”

The irony is striking: to remain truly free, we must use our freedom to impose the right restrictions on ourselves. And that requires discipline.

We Are in a Race (1 Corinthians 9:24–27)

The Apostle Paul compares the Christian life to a race — a gruelling journey filled with both obstacles and opportunities. He urges believers to “run in such a way as to get the prize” (v24). In other words, this isn’t a jog. This is a race with a finish line that draws nearer every day, especially in these last days. And to win this race, Paul insists, “everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things” (v25).

Self-control isn't optional—it is essential. And it’s not something we can manufacture through sheer effort. Galatians 5:22–24 teaches us that self-control is a fruit of the Spirit. That means it comes not from the flesh, but from being led by the Holy Spirit. It’s Spirit-control more than self-control.

To the degree that you are yielded to the Spirit, living in the New Man, walking in step with Christ, is the degree to which self-control will be evident in your life.

Athletes Train with Focus and Sacrifice—Why Don’t We?

Think about Olympic athletes. Their lives revolve around a strict regime: training, rest, nutrition, recovery. Every decision is filtered through the lens of their goal. They live with intentionality because they are chasing a medal that fades. Yet many Christians, who are running a race of eternal significance, often live with less discipline.

These athletes rely on willpower and flesh. We have the Spirit of God.

Self-Control Means Focus (v26)

Paul says, “I do not run aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air” (v26). That’s what self-control gives us — focus. It helps us to align our lives with Christ’s calling and to prioritize the things that matter to His Kingdom.

When God gave me the vision for Firestarters (an evangelistic equipping ministry that I helped found) in 2016, it came with a deep sense of purpose. But vision alone wasn't enough. It took self-control and focus—daily, weekly, monthly—to bring that vision into reality. In the early days, there was significant opposition and difficulty. I recently read a vision document I created in 2016 following that call from God and I was amazed how a lot of what we are doing now in that ministry was already written down then. Without discipline, even the best vision stays a dream. Self-control makes vision sustainable.

Self-Control Means Discipline (v27)

Paul continues, “I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave...” The Greek word he uses — hupōpiazō — is graphic. It means “to strike under the eye,” “to buffet,” “to subdue,” “to harass,” “to annoy into compliance.” It is the language of a fighter, not a philosopher. A soldier, not a spectator.

Why such harsh language? Because Paul knew that spiritual discipline is often uncomfortable, especially to our flesh. But he also knew that discipline produces freedom. Without it, our passions master us. With it, we master them — by God’s grace.

Christian Spiritual Disciplines That Strengthen Self-Control

This discipline is cultivated through the intentional practice of Christian spiritual disciplines. These are not merely religious exercises, but vital pathways to deeper intimacy with God and the strengthening of our inner man. These aren’t rules; they’re rhythms of grace:

• Fasting – Learning to say no to the body to say yes to God

• Prayer – Cultivating constant communication with God, seeking His guidance and strength. Training your heart to depend on God daily

• Worship – Focusing our hearts and minds on the glory and worthiness of God. Reorienting your focus toward eternal things

• Silence & Solitude – Withdrawing from noise to hear God clearly

• Bible Study – Feeding your spirit with truth

• Journaling – Processing our thoughts and prayers, tracking God's work in our lives.

• Fellowship – Strengthening and being sharpened by community

• Evangelism – Living on mission. Sharing the good news of Christ with others, stepping outside our comfort zones.

• Service – Sacrificing comfort for the sake of others

• Meditation – Renewing your mind in God’s Word

• Simplicity – Removing clutter to make room for what matters

• Confession – Walking in the light with God and others

• Submission – Yielding to spiritual authority

• Sabbath – Trusting God enough to rest

• Daily Devotions – Starting each day anchored in His presence

Conclusion: Freedom Through Spirit-Driven Discipline

Freedom isn’t found in doing whatever we want. That kind of “freedom” often leads to bondage. True freedom is the ability to do what we ought — to live as God intended, bearing fruit that lasts.

Self-control is the gateway to that freedom. And discipline is the road that leads us there.

Run to win!