Let’s talk about two paths we walk every day—temperance and gluttony. One’s a gentle friend, the other a sneaky thief. Virtues and vices are like that, aren’t they? They tug at our hearts, whispering choices. Today, let’s ponder these two, with a sprinkle of biblical wisdom to light the way.
Gluttony creeps in like a guest who overstays. It’s that extra slice of cake when you’re already full, the binge-watching spiral that steals your sleep, or the “just one more” that turns into ten. It’s not always about food—it’s about excess, chasing more than we need. Proverbs 23:20-21 warns us: “Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.” Ouch. That hits. Gluttony promises comfort but leaves us empty, craving more.
Then there’s temperance—oh, how she glows! She’s the quiet strength to say “enough,” the peace of savoring what’s good without drowning in it. It’s sipping the wine and smiling, not guzzling ‘til the bottle’s dry. Galatians 5:22-23 calls it self-control, a fruit of the Spirit—proof God’s at work in us. Temperance isn’t boring; it’s freedom. It’s choosing joy over chains.
So how do we kick gluttony to the curb and cozy up to temperance? Start small, heart open. Pray like David in Psalm 51:10: “Create in me a clean heart, O God.” Ask for eyes to see where excess sneaks in. Maybe it’s food, scrolling, or stuff—name it. Then, lean on Jesus’ promise in John 16:33: “In me you may have peace.” Temperance grows when we rest in Him, not in “more.” Try this: next time you’re tempted, pause. Breathe. Thank God for what you have. Watch gluttony shrink.
It’s not about perfection—it’s about progress. One step, one prayer, one “no” at a time. Gluttony’s loud, but temperance sings a sweeter song. Let’s listen. Let’s grow. You’ve got this—He’s got you.
Own Inside Out 
Leave a comment