Great Understanding

Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick tempered displays folly. ~ Proverbs 14:29

I don’t get angry much, but when I do, I usually always regret how I reacted later.  In the above scripture, it says that if we are patient, or less reactionary, we are wiser than those of us who spout off without thinking.  How often have you said something, or done something hastily in anger to only wish you could take it back?  Many times, when I look at where my anger comes from, I notice that my anger is a secondary emotion usually steaming from the fact that I can’t control a situation, or person.  Something, or someone didn’t act, or turn out the way I wanted and so I get angry.  How selfish and prideful of me!  The world needs more patience and understanding and less anger and foolishness.  The person who takes thoughtful consideration leads a life of empathy and compassion whereas the person who leads a life of snappy and impulsive behavior leads a life of regret and confusion.  I want to be self-controlled and I want wisdom as opposed to being hasty and a person others may not want to be around.  To be slow to anger is a sign of spiritual maturity, of walking with the Holy Spirit.  Being hasty and impulsive is a sign of selfishness and may lead to hurtful words and actions.  I want to take into consideration how my words and actions may affect someone before I react.  Is it helpful?  Will I hurt them?  Does what I have to say encourage them, or tear them down?  How we react to something that makes us angry could either further His kingdom, or make others question God’s people.  There is a righteous anger, but even that has to be dealt with in a way that is helpful in the end.  Let’s not let our anger show foolishness, but let us harness it with self-control and respond with thoughtfulness. ~ Amen