Self-discipline, or self-control, is a vital virtue that enables individuals to achieve great things in a godless world, regardless of their circumstances. It is the trait of resolutely controlling one's own desires, particularly sensual ones, and is defined by the Greek word *enkrateia*, meaning inner power or mastery. This inner strength governs attitudes and behaviors, preventing ungodly desires from manifesting into sinful actions when strong, but allowing carnality to flow when weak. In the life of a believer, self-control is a response to the righteousness granted through Christ. It is a fruit of the Spirit, a character trait developed through effort and spiritual maturity, added to other virtues like faith and knowledge in a building process toward the image of Jesus Christ. This process involves starting with righteousness, growing in understanding, and exhibiting self-control to live righteously, ultimately leading to God's judgment. The discipline of the body is likened to athletic training for godliness, requiring a challenging regimen of diligent effort and persistence. It cannot be merely absorbed but must be lived daily with a never-give-up attitude, resisting carnal nature and external pressures. This training demands constant prayer and Bible study to receive God's essential help, aiming to reach the fullness of Christ. Self-discipline remains an absolutely necessary virtue in Christian life and will be continually used in God's Kingdom.

Physical training holds value, as it contributes to overall well-being, though godliness surpasses it in importance for both the present life and the life to come. The care of the body is a stewardship responsibility entrusted to us by God, to glorify Him in our physical form as well as in our spirit. Our bodies, created in His image, have a noble purpose to reflect His likeness and honor Him through their maintenance. Neglecting the body through lack of exercise is akin to disregarding the stewardship God has given us, allowing atrophy and deterioration to set in. Exercise is essential to build abundant, radiant health as God intended, stimulating deep breathing, increasing blood circulation, expelling poisons, and promoting normal bodily functions. It recharges the body, builds energy, and counters the effects of a sedentary lifestyle that many face due to modern conveniences. The discipline of the body through exercise mirrors the spiritual discipline required in our walk with God. Just as physical exercise demands readiness, repetition, resistance, and resolution, so too must we apply these principles to spiritual growth. Readiness involves a decision of mind and a willingness to act. Repetition requires consistent effort, as sporadic actions do not constitute true exercise. Resistance is necessary, as overcoming challenges strengthens us, much like resisting temptation fortifies our spiritual resolve. Resolution demands perseverance, ensuring that we remain steadfast in our commitment to physical and spiritual health, understanding that ceasing to exercise results in loss of benefits. Exercise yields numerous physical benefits, including increased energy, boosted confidence, improved sleep, stronger bones, graceful aging, enhanced mental sharpness, stronger muscles, elevated mood, a fortified immune system, reduced pain, healthier skin, and support for weight management. These outcomes demonstrate the importance of tending to the body as part of our responsibility to God, reinforcing that everything matters in the stewardship of what He has entrusted to us.

The concept of self-government is central to God's plan for humanity, emphasizing the importance of disciplining the body and mastering one's carnal nature. True self-government is not about asserting personal sovereignty or refusing to be ruled by others, but about voluntarily submitting to God's laws through the development of righteous character in imitation of Jesus Christ. This self-control is essential, as God will not grant power to those who cannot govern themselves, for such unchecked power could lead to harm and eternal consequences. A Christian must discipline the body and bring it into subjection to avoid disqualification from the prize of eternal life and glory with Christ. This involves ruling over one's own nature and flesh, putting away sin and unrighteousness, and replacing them with what is good under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Self-control, often translated as temperance or self-mastery in Scripture, is a consistent biblical principle, evident in the lives of God's people who are called to master their carnality and embody the character of Christ. The process of developing self-control is rigorous and often takes years of determined faithfulness, as human nature resists restraint and submission. God works with individuals through trials and challenges to build this self-mastery, pressing on areas of weakness until they are overcome. This discipline is not only for the present but is expected to be the same for those who rise in the second resurrection during the Great White Throne judgment period, where, without the interference of satan and with access to the Holy Spirit, many will learn to govern themselves under God's guidance. Ultimately, God's government includes a significant element of self-government, where individuals, having the mind of Christ, will govern themselves in holiness and righteousness. In the New Heavens and New Earth, there will be no need for external coercion or extensive bureaucracy, as all will be united with God, having internalized His ways and character. This self-control, developed through submission to God, ensures that rebellion and chaos will not arise, allowing for perfect harmony under His sovereignty.