A life of balance, guided by self-control and moderation.
Temperance is the virtue that teaches us balance — not just in our desires or pleasures, but in how we live, speak, react, and choose. It is the discipline that helps us say “enough” when the world says “more.” Temperance isn’t about denial; it’s about rightful enjoyment. It’s the art of moderation — of choosing what is good and avoiding excess.
In a world that often praises indulgence, temperance is the quiet strength that leads to peace. It is not weakness to refrain from excess; it is power rooted in wisdom and self-mastery.
“Let your moderation be known unto all men.” — Philippians 4:5 (KJV)
The person who practices temperance has control over their appetites and passions — not by suppressing them but by rightly ordering them. Whether it’s in eating, speaking, reacting, spending, or seeking pleasure, temperance enables us to live in harmony — within ourselves and with others.
“He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.” — Proverbs 16:32
Temperance protects us from being enslaved by our impulses. It teaches us that freedom is not doing whatever we please, but having the strength to do what is right.
A few ways to practice Temperance:
- Pause before reacting in anger.
- Speak with gentleness, not haste.
- Choose nourishment over indulgence.
- Rest when needed, but not in laziness.
- Spend wisely, not wastefully.
“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize… 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.” — 1 Corinthians 9:24–25
Affirmation:
I choose balance in all that I do. I honour my body, my words, and my actions. I am not ruled by my desires; I walk in self-control, grace, and peace.
Closing Prayer:
Lord, grant me the strength to master my desires and the wisdom to know what is enough. Help me to live a life of harmony, not excess. May temperance guide my choices, so that I may reflect Your grace in all that I do. Amen.
