MARCH 28, Galatians 5:22; Proverbs 16:32

Temperance is admired by people and nations throughout the centuries. What is temperance? Temperance is self-control. Temperance is to be able to know you can fall into sin and to not allow yourself to do whatever fancies you.

Is it easy to achieve temperance? No, it is very difficult. We have to constantly battle against ourselves, for the fleshly nature in us wants us to commit sins and to do whatever our mind wants us to.

For example, you help a classmate in her school project. When the teacher saw it, he was pleased and asked that classmate whether she did it herself and she said “Yes”! That is simply not true, and the natural reaction for anyone may be anger. For a Christian child, he is to have temperance and that means we are not to be angry as any other would, but to control ourselves.

One other aspect you must watch out for, is your speech. All of us at times tend to speak carelessly and say things that hurt our friends’ feelings or feelings of family members. Are you rash in speaking? Or are you a temperate child? Remember that our tongues can do more hurt than even our actions.

James 3:2,

...If any man offend not in __________,

the same (refers to the man) is a perfect man,

and able also to bridle the whole __________.

A man who can control his tongue can control himself, as what he speaks reflects his heart and mind. He is perfect (perfect as in mature, not perfect as in sinless) – he does not speak angrily, is not critical, and does not make rash promises which he cannot fulfil. Instead, he speaks wisely and kindly.

Thought: Are you a temperate child?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to exercise self-control. Sometimes I get too excited and am not temperate, but please help me to improve. I know I have to be temperate as this is pleasing to You. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.