I believe what I am asking here is not only can you say no, but do you have a strong sense of personal discipline? In other words, can you resist something that is either unwholesome or unhealthy? It can be unhealthy spiritually or physically, but either way dangerous. If dangerous then something to be recognized and avoided.
We have all met the one who seems to have discipline under control. Like there is nothing and no one who can tempt them to make an unhealthy choice. This individual has the discipline to resist whatever is calling, if she considers it not the best for her, or her family. She is able to see beyond the attractions and measure the true worth of its value. It is this deeper value and significance that she is after, and so it drives the decisions that she makes. Her eyes see much more than momentary satisfactions, as she exercises self-control.
My next question is what drives her, and is it something that the rest of us should desire, or are we ok just as we are? At the end of the day I think it becomes personal. Worthy of consideration perhaps, but one we should answer for ourselves.
This is one where we can't judge another, nor assume they are judging us. I like to believe that discipline is something that is being developed in me. It does not happen overnight, but it does happen if I desire it. Like the sanctification process that works in believers, although slow, it is intentional and deliberate.
Galatians 5:22-23 NIV But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.