Spirit-Controlled Temperament summary

Understanding the Four Temperaments

In Spirit-Controlled Temperament by Tim LaHaye, we are introduced to the concept of the four temperaments: sanguine, choleric, melancholic, and phlegmatic. LaHaye explains that these temperaments are not just personality types, but are also influenced by our physical bodies and the way we respond to the world around us.

The sanguine temperament is characterized by sociability, the choleric by assertiveness, the melancholic by thoughtfulness, and the phlegmatic by calmness. LaHaye emphasizes that each temperament has its own strengths and weaknesses, and that understanding our temperament can help us grow spiritually and emotionally.

Understanding the Role of the Holy Spirit

LaHaye then delves into the role of the Holy Spirit in controlling our temperaments. He explains that the Holy Spirit can help us harness the positive aspects of our temperaments while overcoming the negative ones. For example, a sanguine person's sociability can be used to spread the gospel, while their tendency to be easily distracted can be controlled with the help of the Holy Spirit.

LaHaye also discusses how the Holy Spirit can help us overcome the weaknesses of our temperaments. For instance, a choleric person's tendency to be domineering can be transformed into assertiveness for the Kingdom of God, while their impatience can be replaced with patience through the work of the Holy Spirit.

Applying the Spirit-Controlled Temperament

In the latter part of Spirit-Controlled Temperament, LaHaye provides practical advice on how to apply the concept of the spirit-controlled temperament in our daily lives. He suggests that we should first identify our temperament, then acknowledge its strengths and weaknesses. Next, we should surrender our temperaments to the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to control and transform them.

LaHaye also emphasizes the importance of understanding and accepting the temperaments of others. By doing so, we can better relate to and work with people of different temperaments, fostering harmony and unity within the body of Christ.

Overcoming the Challenges

Throughout the book, LaHaye acknowledges that living with a spirit-controlled temperament is not without its challenges. He discusses how our temperaments can lead to conflicts in our personal and professional lives, and how the Holy Spirit can help us overcome these challenges.

LaHaye concludes Spirit-Controlled Temperament by reminding us that our temperaments are God-given and can be used for His glory. By allowing the Holy Spirit to control and transform our temperaments, we can become more effective in our service to God and others.