Scripture reading: James 1:2–15

The Marshmallow Test

The fruit of the Spirit is . . . self-control. (Galatians 5:22–23)

 

In the1960s, psychologist Walter Mischel of Stanford University wanted to study delayed gratification and its impact on long-term development. He conducted a famous experiment popularly called “The Marshmallow Test” in which an adult explained to a four-year-old child that he (the adult) was going to leave the child in a room alone for a short period of time. On a table in the middle of the room was a single marshmallow. If the child so desired he could eat the marshmallow immediately; however, if the child refrained from eating until the adult returned, then the child could have two marshmallows.

Hidden observers watched as some of the children, unable to wait at all, wolfed down the single marshmallow as soon as the adult left the room. But other children were able to control their urges and delay gratification. It wasn’t easy. Some covered their eyes so as not to see the marshmallow on the table. Others talked to themselves, sang songs, played games with their hands, or even tried to fall asleep. They were richly rewarded for their patience when the adult returned and gave them the promised two marshmallows.

The real significance of this experiment, however, was seen twelve to fourteen years later when these children became adolescents. Mischel re-examined them and the results were astounding:

Those who had resisted temptation at four were now, as adolescents, more socially competent . . . and better able to cope with the frustrations of life. They were less likely to go to pieces, freeze, or regress under stress, or become rattled and disorganized when pressured; they embraced challenges and pursued them instead of giving up even in the face of difficulties. . . . Most astonishingly, they had dramatically higher scores on their SAT tests. . . . (Daniel Goleman, Emotional Intelligence)

Mischel’s experiment confirms the truth of the Gospel. Those who live for instant gratification often miss out on long term joy. Those who never learn to control their impulses become controlled by them. The “marshmallow test” may be cute and innocuous in the life of a four-year-old, but once the child becomes a man, the results are serious indeed.

The biblical term to describe delayed gratification is hope. Without hope, we become slaves to our impulses and exchange long term joy for short term happiness.

For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently (Romans 8:24–25).

 

The will of God is never exactly what you expect it to be.

It may seem to be much worse, but in the end it’s

going to be a lot better and a lot bigger. —Elisabeth Elliot

 

point to ponder • Where are you exchanging long-term joy for short-term happiness?

prayer  focus • An area where you struggle with self-control or instant gratification.