Temperance?...You Already Have It

I was reading and doing a little study this morning in the book of acts chapter 24. In verse 25 we see where Paul reasoned with Felix of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come.  
This got me looking into temperance. Here is a layout of what temperance actually is.
Here is a clear, Scripture-based definition of temperance (also called self-control) from the Bible:
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Biblical Definition of Temperance
Temperance in the Bible means:
The Spirit-enabled ability to control one’s desires, emotions, impulses, and actions in obedience to God.
It is not willpower alone; it is Holy Spirit–produced mastery over the flesh.
Temperance is one of the Fruits of the Spirit:
“But the fruit of the Spirit is… temperance.”
— Galatians 5:22–23 (KJV)
Most modern translations use “self-control”, which fully captures the Greek meaning.
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Key Biblical Elements of Temperance
1. Spirit-Empowered Self-Control
The Greek word enkrateia means “inner strength,” “mastery,” or “self-control.”
This is control produced by the Spirit, not by human effort alone.
“Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.”
— Galatians 5:16
2. Mastery Over Desires and Passions
Temperance deals with controlling:
 • Fleshly desires
 • Reactions and emotions
 • Anger, lust, appetites, impulses
 • Speech and attitudes
 • Thought life
Paul says believers should be like an athlete exercising discipline:
“Every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things.”
— 1 Corinthians 9:25
3. Saying “No” to Sin, “Yes” to God
Temperance is the internal strength to choose obedience over temptation.
“Denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly…”
— Titus 2:12
4. A Requirement for Christian Maturity
Self-control is listed among the qualities that build spiritual maturity:
“…add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge;
and to knowledge temperance…”
— 2 Peter 1:5–6
5. A Mark of Kingdom Living
It reflects Christ’s character in us and keeps our testimony strong.
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Short Definition
Temperance is the Holy Spirit giving you the power to control yourself so sin does not control you.
I hope this blesses you today!  God bless you