As humans, we all tend to lose our temper from time to time. When we were children, we didn't always have the problem solving solving skills to address our feelings of unfairness. This why children tend to cry out or throw tantrums. They don't know how to handle what they are feeling. As we mature, we acquire more of those problem solving skills and proper social etiquette. However, there are still those times when we can become so overwhelmed by our emotions and our feeling that we might handle our anger differently than we should. Let's take a look at how God wants us to handle things when our tempers flare:
A quick-tempered person does foolish things, and the one who devises evil schemes is hated.–Proverbs 14:17 (NIV)
Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly.–Proverbs 14:29 (NIV)
Don't get even or seek revenge or payback. If something or someone is really bothering you by their communications or actions, don't lash back in anger. Talk it out calmly and work things out. One of the main causes of anger is usually a misunderstanding or miscommunication. The best place to stop anger in its tracks is at the source. Go talk out calmly and quietly with the one who has offended and clear up any misunderstandings between one another.
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.–Proverbs 15:1 (NIV)
I have seen people who practice the art of discernment, those that remain calm and hardly never raise their voices. These people tend to be the ” go to” people. They are the arbitrators and peacemakers of almost every house, church and business. We can learn a lot by watching these gentle spirits at work with the people they come in contact with. They almost never have an enemy and if someone doesn't like them at first, give it time, love and gentleness has a way of working on hearts.
My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.–James 1:19-20 (NIV)
God has a special plan and purpose for each of our lives (Jeremiah 29:11-14). If we choose to let our feelings and emotions get away from us, we might find that we have soon developed quite a reputation for being a ” hot head.” Your reputation is very important to your success, especially when it comes to love people or meeting the needs of others who God has put in your life. Choose to listen carefully. Choose to practice discernment. Choose when and what to speak. Choose only to speak those things which will build up and edify or encourage one another. You'll be amazed at how much can be accomplished by keeping your cool and cautiously choosing when and what to communicate to others.
“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”–Ephesians 4:29-32 (NIV)
That says it all right there. Keep your cool when tempers flare. Stay calm, communicate and let God handle the rest.
Be First to Comment