The Enneagram, according to the Enneagram Institute, is a tool that “helps us to see ourselves at a deeper, more objective level and can be of invaluable assistance on our path to self-knowledge.” This series reflects an opinion that connects faith with each of the nine personality profiles of the Enneagram.
Fruit of the Spirit to focus on: Patience
Sevens are the embodiment of youthfulness, continued into every stage of life. Their gift to the world is their ability to be vibrant, joyous beings. To them, a map is exhilarating and intriguing, as it shows all the places not yet traveled. Their fear of being restricted on all that life has to offer drives them to appreciate independence, freedom and variety of all kinds. Where others fear the storms, they’re fascinated by the lightning; where others see unknown dangers, they see new terrain, cultures and beliefs to be explored. They are constantly seeking the next adventure and multitudes of possibilities; to miss out on those means to lose a longing piece of themselves. Their rapidly moving minds support the ever-present curiosity Sevens possess and make them great at unraveling deep concepts quickly and conceptualizing ideas. Their desire to live in the new and exciting, however, is also the restraint that holds them back.
In their constant pursuit for the next self-deemed most lively moment, they forget to soak in and gain from the current moment’s joys. They begin becoming impatient with others and their situations that keep them from that search and can unhealthily seek to always want more, forgetting that all they need is to rest in God who has given them enough. Their search at its root is a search for what will truly bring them happiness and show them love, because they feel disconnected from that. Therefore, for them, peace is found in the ability to pursue happiness freely and they believe that is also how they can bring peace into the world for others. The realization that true peace comes from patiently resting in who they are and their creator, will end what they believe to be their never-ending search. This can help Sevens grow exponentially.
This is not to say that Sevens chase, and that vivacious dispositions keep them out of reach of heartache; it isn’t that they have no cares and worries during tribulations. Their mind is in the clouds, not because they’re out of tune with reality, but because healthy Sevens have a strong ability to boldly overcome the gravity of the world and choose optimism. They lean into their hopes rather than letting their pain bury them down.
However, sometimes this presence of light keeps them from patiently exploring the darkness. To break through any heaviness that feels like chains to a Seven, they grasp and reach for white noise and projects to fill their mind and time. Being present in each of life’s moments and finding contentment in the idea that they live in plenty will open up a whole new world of possibilities for Sevens. The key for Sevens revolves around reframing the search for new to being the search for new depths.
Advice for those who know a Seven:
Many people who have Sevens in their lives feel particularly close to them with a strong connection because of their upbeat persona and quickness to join in on a good time. In all honesty, the ones who are truly connected to a Seven are those who see past their boundless joy and meet them in their struggles. When a Seven lets others enter into that part of their world, they show their value for them by allowing that to be.
Sevens don’t necessarily hide their frustrations from the world, but they rarely have people in their lives who check in and ask, “How are you doing?” So often people never even consider asking that because of Sevens positive dispositions, but to show that level of support and encouragement is to be a great friend to a Seven.
When Sevens become uncommitted and scattered chasing after a new idea, draw them back and encourage them to grow through depth versus width. For a Seven, appreciating quality over quantity is so important and being a stable, secure person in their lives encourages them to do so.
Verses for Sevens:
Ephesians 4:2
Be always humble, gentle, and patient. Show your love by being tolerant with one another.
Proverbs 15:18
Hot tempers cause arguments, but patience brings peace.
Romans 12:12
Let your hope keep you joyful, be patient in your troubles, and pray at all times.
Romans 13:14
Rather, clothe yourself with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.
Philippians 4:19
And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
