Transforming Your Temperament: A Study in Personalities

We hear a lot in today's society about therapy and trying to discover our "true" selves. But how does this figure into a Christian's life? How can we be individuals but all fit together as believers to do the work of the church? I strongly believe that God gave each one of us a unique and wonderful personality that allows us to serve Him in a special way. We are all different but it is the differences that compliment one another and help us to fit, not unlike puzzle pieces, to form the body of believers.

This is what I would like to explore in a several part series: Temperaments & Personality. We will also explore examples in Scripture, find the roadblocks to our success and how to overcome them. I hope this will be insightful and helpful for you in your Christian walk. This study is based, in part, on a Bible study that a dear pastor friend of mine, Frank Hayward, wrote and taught. This study was called 20/20 Vision and I later adapted the study for my own use, with his permission.

**Disclaimer** I know many Christians are uncomfortable with the personality/ temperament testing or psycho-analysis. Some believe it is an excuse for us to not follow God's commands/ will. (Ex.: "I can't do this or change that because it's just my personality.") I personally find temperament studies to be motivating. It helps me to understand where my strengths/weaknesses lie and, how, through God's great love and wisdom, I can change to better serve Him.

Basic Overview of the Temperaments

SANGUINE- Warm, buoyant, lively and enjoys life. Feelings dominate his decisions. Enjoys people and is never at a loss for words. Makes friends easily. (Extrovert)

CHOLERIC- Hot, quick, active, practical, and strong-willed. Self-sufficient and very independent. Is decisive and opinionated. Often succeeds where others fail. (Extrovert)

MELANCHOLIC: Richest of all the temperaments. He/she is analytical, self-sacrificing, gifted, perfectionist, and very sensitive. By nature an introvert, but shows a variety of moods. (Introvert)