“And to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness.” II Peter 1:6 NIV
I enjoy demonstrating my dog’s art of self-control. Even with the knowledge his favorite treat lies in front of him, when told to “leave it,” he will sit before the prize keeping close eye on it, but not moving an inch towards it. He waits for a simple release that will surely deliver what he most desires. The test goes on if he is waiting while I walk to another room of the house making him persevere in his obedience. Upon my return, he seems just as pleased to have followed my command as he does when he finally sinks his teeth into his reward–well, almost.
Why does what we know of God enable us to persevere, to think before we jump, to somehow accomplish super-human feats? It lies in whether or not we believe we possess a spark of eternity that connects us to the eternal Creator. We are inspired by the Holy Spirit to allow that spark at times to burn more brightly than if it were only fueled by our wants and desires. And it is a flame that can ignite other sparks who witness it.
Holy Spirit, today I pray for awareness and self-restraint.
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