The Temperament God Gave You: The Classic Key to Knowing Yourself, Getting Along with Others, and Growing Closer to the Lord

All of us are born with distinct personality traits. Some of us live for crowds and parties; others seek solitude and time for quiet reflection. Some of us are naturally pushy, while others are content just to get along. We don't pick and choose these traits; they're just part of the way we're made.

For in the womb God doesn't merely mold our body; He also gives us the temperament that, all our days, colors our understanding, guides our choices, and serves as the foundation of our moral and spiritual life.

Ancient philosophers identified four basic temperaments, and over the centuries, countless wise souls have used these four to understand human nature. Now comes The Temperament God Gave You, the first Catholic book on the subject in 70 years. Here veteran Catholic counselor Art Bennett and his wife Laraine provide an accessible synthesis of classical wisdom, modern counseling science, and Catholic spirituality: a rich understanding of the temperaments and what they mean for you and for your family.

Drawing on decades of study, prayer, and practical experience, Art and Laraine show you how to identify your own temperament and use it to become what God is calling you to be: a loving spouse, an effective parent, and a good friend. Best of all, they give you a Catholic understanding of the four temperaments that will bring you closer to God and help you discover the path to holiness that's right for you.

Peace. Happiness. Holiness.

You'll find yourself growing in each of these qualities as you come to understand -- and learn to use as you should -- the temperament God gave you.

Take the temperament test!

Art Bennett is currently the president and CEO of Catholic Charities in the Diocese of Arlington. He was also the co-founder and director of the Alpha Omega Clinics in Maryland and Virginia (2001-2010). He has more than 30 years experience in the mental health field and is a frequent speaker on marriage and family issues.

Laraine Bennett has a master's degree in Philosophy and is the Communications Manager for the National Council of Catholic Women. She has co-authored 6 books with her husband, Art, and one solo book, A Year of Grace: 365 Reflections for Caregivers. She helped create the popular TemperamentQuiz.com. The Bennetts reside in Northern Virginia, have been married for 40 years and have 4 adult children and 3 grandchildren.