Temperament is the God-given characteristics that govern our disposition. Disposition is defined as one’s customary frame of mind, nature, or temperament. Temperament plays an important role in success in life because it affects behavioral patterns, emotional tendencies, and mental attitudes. Personality traits are stimulated by environmental, outside influences, but our individual temperament is pre-determined before birth.
Temperament shapes our life. God uses both its strengths and weaknesses. For example, the strength of a strong will is determination, but its weakness is stubbornness. When we submit our disposition to God for correction and direction, He produces in us the characteristics and nature of Christ.
Romans 8:29 (AMP)
“For those whom He foreknew…He also destined from the beginning to be molded into the image of His Son.”
Practical Application and Assignments:
Understanding temperament is advantageous in learning to bring out the best in ourselves and others.
- Ask God for wisdom. For example, every child responds differently to discipline because they are born with a different temperament. The same look of disappointment or disapproval will cause some children to have a melt-down and challenge others to invite you to a duel.
- Don’t keep pushing the wrong buttons. Understanding temperament doesn’t mean you have to accept inappropriate behavior. It simply helps you change your approach in order to reinforce good behavior.
- Imagine yourself in God’s hands. Ask Him to mold and re-shape any rough edges in your personality. He is the Potter. You are the clay.
“Take an entirely new way of life… as God accurately reproduces His character in you.” Ephesians 4: 23, 24 (MSG)
