The Time Is Now - Developing A Lifestyle Of Prayer

D.

Expressive 3 2 1

0 1

2 3 Reserved

Open Shares inner feelings

Discreet Private

Expressive. This trait, in its extreme, wears its heart on its sleeve. One of this person's weaknesses is a lack of discretion, a failure to distinguish between what is appropriate and what is inappropriate to share with others. This trait, in healthy moderation, brings a sweet openness and honesty to relationships. It doesn't hide or pretend. This person may tend to think negatively and critically of others who are more private and reserved in group prayer. Most often this person will be as open with God in prayer as with other people. Reserved. This trait is reluctant to share deep thoughts or emotions, sometimes even in a close relationship. Often the fear of sharing with others is paralleled by a reluctance to share openly with God. This person is encouraged to frequently ask God to help develop trust and openness with Him-a habit that will help a reserved person make the most of this stud y. Those who are more reserved need to guard against critical thoughts toward those who pray openly about their deep needs. Spontaneous. This trait is quick to become excited or to express passion. In group prayer, a spontaneous person contributes a spark of intensity that stimulates others to join in. But this person may also lose interest in a project when the going gets tough. He or she tends to feel intense enthusiasm in the early stages, but becomes distracted by new ventures when the original project reaches the follow-through and maintenance phases. Persevering. A persevering person is strongly self-disciplined and goal-oriented. He or she will persist in prayer for the long haul. This person is easily irritated by the on-and-off nature of the spontaneous temperament. He or she tends not to become easily excited or to react with intensity to an immediate need. This can be positive in that it exercises discretion, but may also be negative when the need is genuine and requires quick response. Individuals with this trait are usually the reliable prayer warriors. These five personality trait categories were selected because they tend to impact one's style and approach to prayer more dramatically than other traits. As you can see, balance and tol­ erance are key. Pray for yourself and for those who are distinctly different from you, that we might together function as the healthy body God desires. E. Spontaneous 3 2 1 0 1 2 3 Persevering Spur of the moment Impulsive Goal-oriented Disciplined