What NOT to do when we’re angry.
TODAY’S PROVERB: Like a city whose walls are broken down is one with no control over his temper. Proverbs 25:28
Anger. Just like a city without protection, the aftermath of losing our temper leaves us vulnerable. In most cases, the rubble around us is disunity, hurt feelings, and distrust. When we lose our tempers with co-workers or loved ones — even if we believe we’re in the right — until we take the time to repair the damage to relationships we’re open to attacks. Because our exposure can allow the enemy to rob, steal, and destroy all parties involved, including us.
Anger experts describe the emotion as a primary, natural emotion which surfaces as a way of surviving and protecting ourselves from what is considered a wrong-doing.
There are times when anger is necessary, but we need to be disciplined in how we show that anger. Like today’s proverb, we need to have control over our temper.
Here’s what I’ve learned over the years to NOT do:
- Let the sun go down on our anger (Ephesians 4:26).
- Seek to intentionally harm the other party with reckless words. (Proverbs 12:18)
- Forget that we care and love the other party.
- Seek to win at any cost.
- Forget that God has forgiven us.
If we can exercise control of our temper, the breakthroughs will be areas of wisdom, maturity, and reconciliation. We’ll spend less time repairing damage and more time building unity.
May we exercise control, my friends.
Proverbs 25:28 Tree of Life Bible Society, Tree of Life Version – TLV, #tlvbible, #tlvproverbs
