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  HE THAT RULETH HIS SPIRIT
  by A.B. Simpson
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Summary: A.B. Simpson emphasizes the importance of temperance as true
self-government and the need for divine guidance in achieving true
freedom and service to God.

Topics: "Divine Guidance", "Self-Control"
Scripture References: Proverbs 16:32, Galatians 5:22

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DESCRIPTION
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A.B. Simpson emphasizes that true temperance is the essence of self-
government, which requires grace, self-denial, and a sound mind. He
warns against being swayed by emotions, external influences, or even
good intentions that can lead to a loss of freedom. Simpson calls for a
spirit that is continually guided by God's will, ensuring that our
actions align with divine purpose rather than personal desires. He
illustrates the importance of maintaining poise and serenity in our
spiritual journey, urging believers to seek God's guidance in every
moment. Ultimately, he concludes that true service to God brings about
perfect freedom and divine liberty.

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CONTENT
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Temperance is true self-government. It involves the grace of self-denial
and the spirit of a sound mind. It is that poise of spirit that holds us
quiet, self-possessed, composed, deliberate and subject to the voice of
God and the conviction of duty in every step we take. Many persons do
not have that poise and serenity. They are drifting at the impulse of
their own impressions and moods, the influence of others or the
circumstances around them. No desire should ever control us. No purpose,
however right, should have such mastery over us that we are not
perfectly free. Our pure affection may be an inordinate affection. Our
work itself may be a selfish passion.

That thing that we began to do because it was God's will we may cling to
and persist in, ultimately, because it is our own will.

Lord, give us a spirit ever controlled by Thy Spirit and will and the
eye that looks to Thee every moment as the eyes of a maiden to the hands
of her mistress (Psalm 123:2). So shall Thy service be our perfect
freedom, and our subjection divinest liberty.

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/ab-simpson/he-that-ruleth-his-spirit/
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