... self-control is not control by oneself through one's own willpower but rather control of oneself through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Godly character flows out of devotion to God and practically confirms the reality of that devotion.
We obey God's Law, not to be loved but because we are loved in Christ.
Obeying the revealed will of God and trusting Him for the results.
Evil Rulers Are Never Beyond The Bounds of God's Sovereign Will
The pursuit of holiness is a joint venture between God and the Christian. No one can attain any degree of holiness without God working in his life, but just as surely no one will attain it without effort on his own part.