Temperance, also known as self-control, is one of the core moral values described in the Bible. It is often talked about in hushed tones and is often overlooked. In short, temperance is nothing more than self-control, a way of avoiding the ruinous consequences of impulsive actions. It involves thoughtfulness, consideration, and moderation in one’s conduct. While it’s true that self-control is not easy, it is absolutely essential for leading a productive and happy life.
The Bible offers valuable advice on temperance. In Proverbs 25: 28, it states, “Whoever is slow to anger has great understanding, but one who has a hasty temper exalts folly.” From this, we can infer that taking the time to think through a situation before acting is far better than acting impulsively. This can be arguably applied to almost any situation, whether it’s a personal relationship, a job, or a business decision.
The Bible also speaks of the importance of “self-control”. Galatians 5: 22-23 says, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” Self-control is essential for being able to handle difficult circumstances and being in control of our own words and actions. This is because if we don’t have self-control, we’re more vulnerable to sinning. For instance, without self-control, it would be very easy to succumb to temptation in areas such as drug use, alcohol abuse or adultery.
The book of Titus encourages us to practice temperance and to be mindful of our behaviour. In Titus 2:11-12, it states, “For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age.” This means that we must rely on God’s grace to help us overcome our weaknesses and live a life of temperance.
The Bible also tells us to avoid being led astray by the “sinful desires of the flesh”. In Romans 13:13-14, it says, “Let us behave properly as in the day, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual promiscuity and sensuality, not in strife and jealousy., but put on your Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh in regard to its lusts.” This is another reminder from the Bible to practice temperance and to control our urges.
Overall, temperance is a core moral value that is essential for leading a happy and productive life. It is the foundation for self-control and avoiding the ruinous consequences of impulsive actions. Keeping this in the forefront of our minds will help us live a life of reviving joy, peace, love, and self-control.
Patience
Patience is an important factor in temperance. Patience is the ability to wait for something without becoming agitated or anxious. It requires deep thought, deliberation, and control. In fact, the Bible speaks of the need for patience in Ecclesiastes 7:8, “Patience is better than power.” This teaches us to take a deep breath and wait before acting, instead of getting frustrated and lashing out. Patience is necessary for temperance, as it provides us with enough time to think things through.
The book of James talks about the power of faith and patience. In James 5:7-8, it states, “Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near.” This emphasizes the importance of patience and how it is a key factor in maintaining temperance.
The Bible also speaks of the need to wait during difficult times. In 1 Thessalonians 5:14, it states, “And be patient with everyone. See that no one pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and everyone else.” This teaches us to be patient and practice temperance even in times of trouble. If we become angry and lose control, we are susceptible to saying or doing something we will regret.
Ultimately, patience is an important factor in temperance. We must practice patience to help us think our decisions through and abstain from making hasty decisions. If we are patient and practice temperance, we will be able to maintain control in difficult and challenging situations.
Gentleness
Gentleness is another crucial factor in temperance. According to Galatians 5:22-23, gentleness is a fruit of the Spirit. Gentleness is the quality of being kind and considerate of others. It requires an individual to be tolerant, understanding and compassionate to others. The Bible encourages us to avoid harsh behaviour and to practice gentleness.
In Proverbs 15:1, it declares: “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” This means that we should be mindful of our words and actions, and avoid inflammatory and harsh behaviour. Gentleness is essential for temperance as it prevents us from being impulsive and lashing out, which can lead to unpleasant situations.
In Colossians 3:12-13, it tells us to bear with each other. It states, “Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone.” This shows us how important gentleness is in getting along with others and resolving disputes.
In conclusion, gentleness is a key component of temperance. It helps us to be mindful of our words and behaviour, as well as being tolerant, understanding and compassionate to those around us. The Bible encourages us to practice gentleness and use it to help us stay true to ourselves.
Humility
Humility is an important factor in temperance. As stated in Proverbs 15:33, “The fear of the Lord teaches a person to be wise and humble.” Humility demands an individual to have an appropriate sense of one’s own worth in comparison to others. It requires respect and interpersonal awareness, as well as having the courage to accept and learn from mistakes.
The Bible talks about the importance of humility in James 4:10, “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up.” This tells us that having humility is essential for maintaining a relationship with God. Furthermore, by showing humility, we can enable ourselves to be teachable and willing to learn.
In Philippians 2:3-4, the Bible further encourages us to practice humility. It states: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” This passage deems humility as essential for being able to relate to and understand other people, which is a crucial component of temperance.
Overall, humility is essential for temperance. It helps individuals to have an appropriate sense of their own worth and value others. As the Bible tells us, it is absolutely essential for having a good relationship with God and for maintaining relationships between other people.
Purpose
Having a purpose or goal is also an important factor in temperance. According to Proverbs 16:3, “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.” This teaches us that by committing our plans to God, He will direct us towards achieving our goals. This will help us stay focused and motivated to strive for success.
The Bible also talks about the importance of having a moral compass in Proverbs 16:11, “Honest scales and balances belong to the Lord; all the weights in the bag are His concern.” This verse reminds us that we should be honest with ourselves and use discernment when making decisions. Being aware of our moral compass helps us stay true to ourselves, which is essential for leading a life of temperance.
In Galatians 6:9, the Bible tells us to not be weary in doing good. It states, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” This emphasizes the need to be patient and have a long-term plan. Having a moral sense of purpose and goal is integral for temperance, as it keeps our feet on the ground and helps us to stay focused and driven.
In conclusion, having a purpose and goal is another essential factor for temperance. It helps us to stay focused and motivated towards achieving our objectives, as well as keeping us true to our moral compass. The Bible encourages us to practice wisdom when setting goals and to remain steadfast and patient in achieving our objectives.
