Temperance, or self-control, is a valued virtue, but what does the Bible say about it? Is it something we’re encouraged to practice in all areas of life, and how does scripture help us understand the importance of temperance? Let’s explore the biblical perspective on this timeless virtue.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Going To Bed Angry
What Does The Bible Say About Temperance
1 Corinthians 9:25
“Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.”
This verse reminds us that just as athletes train their bodies and exercise self-control in order to receive a temporary prize, we should exercise self-control in all areas of our lives to receive an eternal reward from God.
Temperance involves practicing moderation, self-restraint, and discipline in our thoughts, actions, and desires. By exercising temperance, we align ourselves with God’s will and cultivate a life of balance and self-control.
Proverbs 16:32
“Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of self-control and patience. It teaches us that it is better to have self-control and be patient than to be quick to anger or impulsive in our actions.
Temperance allows us to maintain a calm and composed demeanor, even in challenging situations. It helps us make wise decisions and avoid impulsive actions that may lead to negative consequences.
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things, there is no law.”
In this passage, self-control is identified as one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit. It is a characteristic that is produced in the life of a believer when they are filled with the Spirit of God.
Temperance is not simply an act of human willpower but is empowered by the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. As we yield to the Spirit’s guidance, He enables us to exercise self-control in every aspect of our lives.
Proverbs 25:28
“Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.”
This verse paints a vivid image of the consequences of lacking self-control. Just as a city with broken walls is vulnerable to attacks, a person without self-control is susceptible to being overcome by temptation and destructive behaviors.
Temperance serves as a protective wall around our hearts and minds, guarding us against the influences that could lead us astray. It enables us to stay focused on God’s purposes and resist the allure of instant gratification.
2 Peter 1:5-7
“For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love.”
In this passage, self-control is portrayed as a virtue that should be cultivated alongside other godly qualities. It is part of the progression of spiritual growth that enables us to live a life that is pleasing to God.
Temperance is not an isolated attribute but is intertwined with other virtues. As we develop self-control, it strengthens our perseverance, godliness, and love for others, enabling us to live a life that reflects the character of Christ.
Titus 2:11-12
“For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age.”
This passage highlights the transformative power of God’s grace in our lives. It not only brings salvation but also instructs us in living a self-controlled and godly life.
Temperance is a result of God’s grace working within us. His grace empowers us to resist the temptations of the world and live in a manner that is pleasing to Him.
Proverbs 14:29
“Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly.”
This verse contrasts the wisdom of patience with the folly of a quick-tempered person. It reminds us that exercising self-control and patience leads to greater understanding and discernment.
Temperance enables us to respond to situations with wisdom and discernment rather than reacting impulsively out of anger or frustration. It allows us to navigate relationships and conflicts with grace and understanding.
1 Peter 5:8
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”
This verse serves as a warning to stay vigilant and alert. It reminds us that the devil seeks to exploit our lack of self-control and lead us into temptation and sin.
Temperance helps us maintain a clear and sober mind, enabling us to discern the schemes of the enemy and resist his attacks. It equips us to stand firm in our faith and overcome the temptations that come our way.
Psalm 141:3
“Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips.”
This verse acknowledges the power of our words and the need for self-control in our speech. It is a prayer for God’s help in guarding our tongues and keeping our words in check.
Temperance extends to our speech, prompting us to think before we speak and exercise restraint in our words. It helps us avoid gossip, slander, and other harmful speech, and instead speak life, encouragement, and truth.
Proverbs 16:24
“Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.”
This verse highlights the power of gracious and kind words. It emphasizes the positive impact that our speech can have on others when it is characterized by self-control and temperance.
Temperance in our speech enables us to speak words that build up, encourage, and bring healing to those around us. It reflects the love and grace of God in our interactions with others.
Romans 14:21
“It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother or sister to fall.”
This verse teaches us the importance of temperance in our actions, particularly when they can influence others. It encourages us to consider the impact of our behaviors on our fellow believers.
Temperance prompts us to make choices that reflect love and consideration for others. It helps us avoid activities or behaviors that may lead others to stumble or compromise their own convictions.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies.”
This passage reminds us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, and as such, we are called to honor God with our bodies. It encourages us to exercise self-control in how we treat and steward our physical bodies.
Temperance in our physical actions involves taking care of our bodies, avoiding behaviors that harm ourselves or others, and making choices that align with God’s desire for holiness and purity.
Philippians 4:5
“Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.”
This verse encourages us to exhibit gentleness in our interactions and demeanor. It reminds us that our actions and attitudes should reflect the presence of the Lord in our lives.
Temperance manifests as gentleness, allowing us to respond with kindness, patience, and understanding. It helps us diffuse conflicts and build harmonious relationships with others, while maintaining a gentle and humble spirit.
Colossians 3:5
“Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed, which is idolatry.”
This verse highlights the importance of self-control in overcoming the desires of our earthly nature. It urges us to put to death sinful behaviors and temptations that can lead us astray from God’s will.
Temperance enables us to recognize and resist the temptations of the flesh. It empowers us to live in holiness, righteousness, and purity, honoring God in our thoughts, actions, and desires.
1 Timothy 2:9-10
“I also want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, adorning themselves, not with elaborate hairstyles or gold or pearls or expensive clothes, but with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God.”
This passage addresses the importance of temperance in how we present ourselves to the world. It encourages modesty and the adornment of good deeds rather than placing excessive emphasis on outward appearance or material possessions.
Temperance in our appearance and dress reflects an inward focus on cultivating a godly character. It prioritizes humility, simplicity, and a heart that seeks to honor and glorify God above external adornments.
1 Corinthians 7:5
“Do not deprive each other except perhaps by mutual consent and for a time, so that you may devote yourselves to prayer. Then come together again so that Satan will not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.”
This verse addresses the importance of self-control and temperance within the context of marital intimacy. It encourages mutual consent and self-restraint to avoid falling into temptation.
Temperance in the area of sexuality embraces God’s intended purpose for marital intimacy, ensuring it remains within the boundaries of a lifelong commitment and reflects mutual respect and self-control.
Proverbs 21:23
“Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity.”
This verse highlights the correlation between self-control in our speech and the avoidance of negative consequences. It emphasizes the importance of guarding our words to prevent harm and calamity.
Temperance in our speech protects us from hurting others and damaging relationships. It allows us to communicate with wisdom, kindness, and discretion, avoiding conflicts and bringing about positive outcomes.
Ephesians 5:18
“Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.”
This verse warns against the lack of self-control associated with excessive drinking and urges us to seek spiritual fullness instead. It invites us to yield to the Holy Spirit rather than indulging in harmful behaviors.
Temperance involves choosing sobriety and being filled with the Spirit, which empowers us to live in alignment with God’s purposes and walk in wisdom rather than being controlled by worldly desires.
Proverbs 25:16
“If you find honey, eat just enough— too much of it, and you will vomit.”
This verse illustrates the importance of moderation and self-control in our appetites and desires. It warns against excess and the negative consequences that can result from indulging without restraint.
Temperance prompts us to exercise self-control in all areas of our lives, including our consumption of food, drink, entertainment, and material possessions. It helps us maintain a balanced and healthy lifestyle, free from the bondage of excess.
James 1:26
“Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of self-control in our speech and the connection between our words and the authenticity of our faith. It challenges us to examine our own lives and ensure that our actions align with our beliefs.
Temperance in our speech reflects the sincerity of our faith and reveals the transformation that has taken place in our hearts. It serves as a testimony to the power of Christ in our lives.
Luke 21:34
“Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you suddenly like a trap.”
This verse cautions against the excessive pursuit of worldly pleasures and distractions that can lead to spiritual lethargy and separation from God. It urges us to exercise self-control and remain focused on our eternal perspective.
Temperance enables us to maintain a balanced and intentional approach to life, steering clear of the distractions and vices that can hinder our walk with God. It keeps us prepared for the return of Christ and ensures that we remain alert and ready.
1 Peter 1:13
“Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming.”
This verse calls us to be alert and sober-minded, setting our hope firmly on the grace that awaits us when Christ returns. It encourages us to live with self-control and clear thinking.
Temperance involves guarding our minds and setting our focus on the eternal rather than being swayed by the distractions and pressures of the world. It gives us the ability to keep our thoughts fixed on God’s promises and live with anticipation of His coming.
Through these verses, we see that temperance is more than just self-restraint; it is a reflection of our surrender to the work of the Holy Spirit within us. It encompasses various areas of our lives, including our speech, actions, desires, and relationships. Temperance helps us align our will with God’s will and enables us to live lives that bring honor and glory to Him. It empowers us to resist the temptations of the world, exercise self-control in our decisions and actions, and exhibit the fruit of the Spirit. As we cultivate temperance in our lives, we grow in wisdom, maturity, and likeness to Christ.