“Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools.” Eccl 2:9
Have you ever said or done something in a moment of anger, which turned out to be stupid or foolish?
About 15 years ago, I was framing a house, and the boss gave me a task I wasn’t used to. I was swinging away with my hammer at some braces, but it was awkward and I couldn’t get a solid hit. I got irritated and swung really hard in anger, but I missed and hit myself squarely in the knee. I was howling for half an hour, and everybody got to see it.
It’s experiences like these, and believe me, I could cite plenty more, that have taught me not to give in to the impulses that come when I’m angry.
Yielding to the inclinations of a quick temper is a sure way to get yourself into trouble, hurt yourself, and often times hurt others as well.
“A patient man has great understanding, but a quick-tempered man displays folly.” Proverbs 14:21
Hey guess what? If you are lacking in the patience department, I have good news. Patience happens to be a fruit of the Holy Spirit within your life. All you’ve got to do is come clean (confess) with God where you’ve made mistakes, and ask Him to empower you through His Spirit.
He guarantees us in Luke 11 that He gives the Holy Spirit to those who ask, so why go on being irritable and frustrated?
Go get some!