A Quick Definition
What is the Holy No? It’s when we say no to our own desires, fears and self-doubt and say yes to Jesus in some new area of our life. Because the “Holy No” is also a “Holy Yes.” We’re giving Christ the right to interrupt our lives and send us in a new direction. But let’s admit it; saying “no” to ourselves is difficult to do. It forces us to exert more self-discipline.
You already have self-control. It’s in you as a fruit of the spirit, but it’s a little teeny tiny seed. Nobody can develop your discipline and self- control but you. (Joyce Meyer)
Brick Laying
Growing in self-control is very much like building a brick wall. Each brick has to be set in place using mortar. At first, when the mortar’s wet, the bricks can be easily moved or replaced. So a bricklayer has time to fix problems. Usually the mortar takes 24 to 48 hours to cure, depending on the weather. After that, the mortar continues to harden over the next several days or weeks. But once the mortar dries completely, each brick becomes permanently locked in place.
I find building self-control in a new area of my life is like building a brick wall.
My Brick and Mortar Analogy
This wall is my life, and all the bricks with words are “new bricks.” These are changes that I need to make. But each change takes self-control in a new area.
The bricks get set in place when I first start to do each new action. Mortar equals time + faithfulness as I say yes to the Holy Spirit and no to my own bad or sinful habits. The mortar hardening and locking the bricks into place permanently? That means a new personal habit has been formed.
And once a resolution becomes a habit, it becomes much easier to do.
One good tip? To form a new habit, begin small. Start by taking a baby step, something you can easily do every day, because reputation is important.
Building Self Control
I often write from “a point of conviction.” Either people read about a spiritual breakthrough I’ve had, or about a sin or bad habit I’m personally wrestling with. But nothing challenges me more than this topic. I’ve struggled over the last few years to develop greater self-discipline, especially in the way I use my free time. Frankly, I’m a big time waster. It didn’t matter when I was 23. But now I’m decades older, with a godly calling on my life.
A New Habit
I learning to soak in God’s presence. But I don’t use the time to worship God or pray or read the Bible. Instead I quiet myself and give Him space to speak. Interestingly, both the Old and New Testament mentions this little-used Christian discipline.
Jesus spoke clearly about how a believer bears fruit.
I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in me, and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit for apart from me you can do nothing. (John 15:5 RSV)
One study was done about native evangelists in Asia who were leading many people to Christ each year. These Christians worked in countries where the gospel wasn’t welcome, yet they each had very fruitful harvests under tough conditions.
What made them so effective? Just one thing.
These radical believers prayed and spent time with Jesus 3-4 hours a day and God rewards that kind of seeking.
Jesus spoke of fruit, but Isaiah mentioned eagles.
31 but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength,
they shall mount up with wings like eagles,
they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.(Isaiah 40:31)
So I’m learning to sit in His presence and be still. Why? Because I wish to grow more intimate with Him. I want to hear His Voice more clearly, to be refreshed and energized for any task He gives me.
And yes, it takes a new level of self-discipline.
These images came from Pixabay.com
Resources:
How long does mortar take To dry? The answer is complex and fascinating. Enjoy this post from the Chicago Brick Co.
Soaking in the Spirit and The Soaking Encounter Journal written by Carol Arnott are helping me to be still and wait upon the Lord. The journal allows me to keep track of anything I may hear from the Lord.
