The ascetic temperament gravitates toward solitude, austerity, simplicity, and deep commitment. It represents believers who are not afraid of discipline, severity, and solitude. It is similar to the monastic lifestyle. (Austere can mean morally strict, somber, grave, unadorned or simple)

Most of our solitude is forced, not chosen, creating loneliness rather than spiritual intimacy with the Father.

Ascetics, perhaps more than any of the other temperaments, must practice loving God.

Anyone who has been stretched in ministry knows that Jesus’ real battle over facing the cross was fought in Gethsemane. He finally won by choosing to be obedient.

The devout are called to mourn, see: Lamentations, Daniel & Joel.

Naturalists might go to a beautiful countryside; an Ascetic may seek a barren wasteland.

Christian asceticism doesn’t seek suffering or self-denial as an end, but as a means, as a way to love “something else that God might be loved more.”

True ascetics are strict with themselves but treat others with supernatural gentleness.

A Nazirite vow was taken by people for a period of time during which they abstained from alcohol, refrained from cutting their hair, and had no contact with a dead body. During a Nazirite vow these people were “set apart” for a special purpose. The vow was for a set period of time, then they could leave their solitude to fulfill the social obligations of their faith.

John the Baptist lived a solitary and ascetic life.

Jesus fasted for 40 days in solitude, and had moments of solitude during ministry. Mark 1:35; Matthew 26:36

Jesus taught prayer should be done in secret.

While sensate Christians are often drawn to God through their senses, ascetic Christians are often distracted by their senses so they will try to shut them out.

Ascetics stress deeds before words.