22 Apr W3 | Delayed Gratification

Posted at 13:51h in May, Topics 2025 by

REFERENCE BIBLE VERSES

Romans 8:18 | For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. (ESV)

Matthew 16:25-27 | For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul? For the Son of Man is going to come with his angels in the glory of his Father, and then he will repay each person according to what he has done. (ESV)

 

OBJECTIVE

To understand that self-control and sacrifice is needed to enjoy the fruit that God has prepared for us.

CONTENT

THE BATTLE WITHIN

  • Imagine a battle where two forces fight for control—only one can win. That’s the tension we often face within ourselves: to trust and follow God's plan or give in to our own desires. This is the daily battle between the Spirit and the flesh.
  • The Bible tells us that self-control is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23), not just a nice trait to have. It's a sign that we are being led by the Spirit rather than by our impulses. Exercising self-control means we resist sin and remain aligned with God’s purpose, even when it’s difficult.
  • This battle often involves sacrifice. In Matthew 16:25, Jesus speaks of denying ourselves, taking up our cross, and following Him. In His time, the cross wasn't just a symbol—it represented shame, suffering, and death. Jesus is calling us to die to the world and surrender all that ties us down—comfort, status, even our own desires—so we can live fully for Him.

THE PATH TO TRUE REWARD

  • What comes easy isn't always what’s best. In a world that glorifies instant gratification—from fast food to one-click purchases—waiting feels unnecessary. But God’s path is different. It often requires waiting, discipline, and faith.
  • Jesus reminds us in Matthew 7:13–14 that the wide and easy road leads to destruction, while the narrow path, though difficult, leads to life. Choosing God’s way may be hard and slow, but it’s the only road that leads to true reward.
  • Paul helps us shift our mindset: “The sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed.” (Romans 8:18). The hardships we face now are temporary; the reward God is preparing is eternal. We can endure, because we know there’s something greater ahead.

BIBLICAL EXAMPLES OF DELAYED GRATIFICATION

  • Abraham and Sarah (Genesis 21:1–7):
    God promised them a child, but they waited decades for Isaac’s birth. Their story reminds us that God always fulfills His promises—in His perfect timing.
  • Joseph (Genesis 37–50):
    Betrayed, enslaved, and imprisoned—Joseph had every reason to give up. But he remained faithful, and God raised him to power in Egypt, using his journey to save many lives.
  • Jesus (Hebrews 12:2):
    “For the joy set before Him, He endured the cross…” Jesus chose to suffer for a future reward—our salvation. His life teaches us the ultimate example of patience, sacrifice, and trust in God’s will.

REFLECTION/DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

  • What are some practical ways we can develop patience and self-discipline in our walk with Christ?
  • Can you share a time when God rewarded your patience—when you chose to wait or obey rather than take the easy way out?

REFERENCES