Although these have a reputation of wisdom by promoting ascetic practices, humility, and severe treatment of the body, they are not of any value in curbing self-indulgence.
It is by dying with Christ that the Holy Spirit can live within us and among us by faith and grant us the power to overcome the temptation to indulge the flesh. No rule or regulation can ever change the heart of man. They do manage behavior to some extent; however, they can never affect motive and desire. They lead toward pride and self aggrandizement. Only Christ can change the heart of man.
It is the Spirit who leads us toward humble self-abasement for the sole glory of God. It is God’s Holy Spirit Who lives within us who gives us the power to live as Christ lives. No rule or regulation will give us this resolve. The harvest of the Spirit includes the strength through self-control to overcome the indulgences of the flesh that otherwise would destroy us eternally.
Thanks be to God’s indwelling Holy Spirit. Thanks be to God that we are filled with Christ. The one who loses his own life will find it in Christ.
Ventanas 