Proverbs 5:23, as presented in the New Living Translation, offers a profound warning about the consequences of lacking self-control:
“He will die for lack of self-control; he will be lost because of his great foolishness.”
While the death referenced here does not necessarily mean immediate physical death, it symbolizes the various kinds of destruction that stem from a lack of discipline in one’s life. These consequences affect physical health, relationships, spiritual vitality, and the fulfilment of God’s purpose. Let us expand on this from a biblical perspective:
- Physical Consequences: Neglecting Self-Control in Lifestyle Choices
The Bible teaches the importance of caring for our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). When self-control is neglected in areas such as eating, drinking, or physical care, the repercussions can be significant:
- Overeating or unhealthy eating habits lead to increased risks of cardiovascular diseases, obesity, and other health problems. Proverbs 23:20-21 warns, “Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.” This reflects not just financial poverty but also the physical toll of overindulgence.
- Data and medical studies confirm that lack of discipline in diet or exercise contributes to higher mortality rates, especially due to conditions such as heart disease. This aligns with the biblical principle that ignoring wise discipline leads to harm (Proverbs 10:17).
- Self-control as stewardship: God entrusts us with our bodies, and failing to care for them limits our capacity to serve Him effectively. Paul illustrates this in 1 Corinthians 9:27: “I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified.”
- The Death of a Glorious Destiny
Lack of self-control can prevent individuals from fulfilling the great plans God has for their lives (Jeremiah 29:11). Several biblical examples illustrate this truth:
- Esau: In Genesis 25:29-34, Esau traded his birthright (a representation of God’s promise) for a single meal. His lack of restraint caused him to forfeit his destiny for temporary satisfaction, serving as a warning against impulsive decisions.
- Samson: As seen in Judges 13-16, Samson was chosen by God to deliver Israel from the Philistines. However, his lack of discipline, particularly in relationships, led to his downfall. Samson’s indulgence in his desires for Delilah led to his betrayal, blindness, and eventual death. While God redeemed him in the end, Samson’s lack of self-control resulted in a premature death and the loss of his full potential.
Without self-control, one may succumb to distractions, sin, or compromise that hinders the realization of God’s purposes. The pursuit of temporary pleasures can derail long-term vision and success.
- The Death of Marriages and Relationships
Self-control is foundational for maintaining healthy and godly relationships. Lack of discipline in emotions, desires, or actions often leads to broken relationships.
- Anger and harsh words: Proverbs 15:1 teaches that “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Uncontrolled anger or speech can erode trust and intimacy in marriage. James 3:6 likens the tongue to a fire that can destroy relationships if not controlled.
- Infidelity and lust: In Matthew 5:28, Jesus warns that even looking at someone lustfully is equivalent to adultery in the heart. Lack of self-control in guarding one’s thoughts and desires can lead to actions that destroy a marriage. Proverbs 6:32 declares, “A man who commits adultery has no sense; whoever does so destroys himself.”
- Finances and priorities: Mismanagement of finances due to impulse spending or greed can strain marriages, creating discord. Proverbs 21:20 highlights the wisdom of discipline, saying, “The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down.”
Self-control ensures that relationships are nurtured with love, patience, and humility, reflecting God’s character
- Spiritual Consequences: Losing Fellowship with God
The lack of self-control also leads to spiritual death, severing fellowship with God and diminishing His presence in our lives.
- Samson as an example: Samson’s repeated disregard for God’s commands and his indulgence in sin caused the Spirit of the Lord to depart from him (Judges 16:20). This illustrates how unchecked sin resulting from lack of discipline can separate us from God’s presence.
- Unrepented sin leads to separation: Romans 6:23 reminds us, “The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” A lifestyle of no self-control when it comes to the issue of sin results in spiritual death and estrangement from God’s blessings and peace.
- The vulnerability of an undisciplined life: Proverbs 25:28 says, “A person without self-control is like a city with broken-down walls.” This imagery shows that without discipline, one is exposed to the attacks of the enemy, resulting in spiritual decay and defeat.
On the contrary, walking in step with the Holy Spirit produces self-control (Galatians 5:22-23) and protects against the consequences of undisciplined living.
- Destroying a Godly Vision
God places specific callings and purposes on the lives of His children. However, a lack of self-control can destroy one’s ability to fulfill that vision.
- Procrastination and laziness: Proverbs 6:10-11 warns that laziness leads to poverty and ruin. If one fails to discipline themselves in the use of time and resources, God’s plans may go unfulfilled.
- Rash decisions and impulsive behavior: A lack of patience and prayerful discernment can lead to actions that derail God’s vision. In Luke 14:28-30, Jesus teaches about counting the cost, emphasizing the importance of deliberate and disciplined planning.
- Moral failure in leadership: Many leaders in Scripture (e.g., Saul, David) experienced setbacks due to moments of undisciplined behavior. While God is merciful, the consequences of sin often affect one’s ability to lead effectively and achieve the vision God has placed on their life.
The Biblical Solution: Walking in Self-Control
The good news is that self-control is not something we develop on our own—it is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Here’s how believers can grow in self-discipline:
Submit to God’s Word: Psalm 119:11 says, “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” Regular meditation on Scripture equips believers with wisdom and conviction to make disciplined choices.
Rely on the Holy Spirit: 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us, “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline.” Prayer and reliance on the Spirit empower believers to resist temptations.
Practice accountability: Hebrews 10:24-25 emphasizes the importance of encouraging one another in godliness. Accountability within a community of believers helps foster discipline.
Summary:
Proverbs 5:23 serves as a caution that lack of self-control leads to various forms of death—physical, relational, spiritual, and vocational. By walking in the Spirit, relying on God’s strength, and exercising discipline, we can overcome these pitfalls and fulfil the abundant life God has planned for us.
God bless you
Altar call: For anyone reading this article who is not saved and wants to be part of the family of God or you want to re-dedicate your life back to Jesus, please repeat this out loud. “Lord Jesus, I acknowledge that I have sinned against you. Lord Jesus forgive me of my sins. I repent of my sins. Lord Jesus come into my life and be my Lord now and forever in Jesus Name
Prayer: Anything in my life that makes me undisciplined, Father, today in Your mercy, please remove it from my life, in Jesus Name
Feast of Light Word Ministry
