To conclude our reflection on the fruit of the Spirit, we shall today be considering temperance. To be temperate is to have self-control. Temperance enables you to remain cool, calm and collected in the midst of dire situations. Through the manifestations of temperance, you will save yourself the pain of hasty and rash pronouncements that you will later regret. Temperance will restrain you from overreacting in situations that could make you lose your integrity. It takes the restraint of Holy Spirit to turn the other cheek to those who despitefully use you (Luke 6:29). To better understand temperance, just picture Stephen in excruciating pain and about to die, praying for God’s mercy on those who stoned him to death. This is the hallmark of a life full of the Holy Spirit (Acts 7:55). The Lord Jesus Christ also manifested this same nature on the cross of Calvary (Luke 23:34). When He was arrested and tried, it was temperance that enabled Him to restrain Himself from putting up a defence. There would have been no redemption if Jesus Christ had defended Himself. Matthew 27:13-14 says,
“Then said Pilate unto him, Hearest thou not how many things they witness against thee? And he answered him to never a word; insomuch that the governor marvelled greatly.”
I reckon that in the course of His trial, the Holy Spirit could have continually brought to His remembrance what was written concerning Him in Isaiah 53:7-8. When you cultivate a relationship with the Holy Spirit, whenever you are faced with a situation of conflict, in order to restrain you, the Holy Spirit will remind you of who you are and where you are going . He will also put words in your mouth if there is a need for you to respond. This is how His nature of temperance is manifested in our character.

As we conclude our study on the fruit of the Spirit, you need to be reminded that walking in the Spirit is the process that brings about the manifestation of the fruit of the Spirit in us. The Holy Spirit is a Person and not a force, and so He will not compel you to fellowship with Him, even though He resides inside of you. You need to yield yourself to Him and cultivate His friendship for His fruit to manifest in your life. Here is the key to walking in the Spirit, from Amos 3:3:
Can two walk together, except they be agreed?
Your life needs to be in agreement with His principles for you to walk with Him. He is the Promise of the Father, and He is willing to abide with you if you will make your life habitable for Him.
Written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye.