As we walk the path of faith, it is easy to focus on the grand gestures—acts of charity, evangelism, or moments of spiritual awakening. Yet, nestled within the virtues is one that often goes unnoticed: temperance. This quiet but profound quality teaches us balance, self-control, and moderation, urging us to steward our lives in alignment with God’s wisdom.
In Galatians 5:22-23, the Apostle Paul lists temperance, or self-control, as a fruit of the Spirit. This virtue is not merely about abstaining from excess but about living in a way that honors God in every aspect of life. It is a call to manage our desires, whether for food, drink, possessions, or even power, so that none of these things master us. Consider the life of Jesus. In every situation, He displayed perfect temperance. Whether He was fasting in the wilderness, dining with sinners, or facing His accusers, His actions were marked by self-control and purpose. Jesus lived with a singular focus: doing the will of His Father.
For us, temperance is a daily choice. It may mean saying "no" to something good to pursue something better or pausing to pray instead of reacting in anger. It might involve managing our time, so we can prioritize God’s Word and our relationships, or choosing generosity over indulgence. As Proverbs 25:28 warns, "A person without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls." Without temperance, we become vulnerable to the enemy’s schemes. But with it, we build walls of strength, safeguarding our hearts and minds for Christ. This week, let us prayerfully consider where God is calling us to practice temperance. By His grace and the power of the Holy Spirit, we can live lives that reflect His holiness, shining as examples of balance and peace in a world of excess.
