Solomon’s practical counsel
Spotlight on Ecclesiastes 7:1-14
“Control your temper, for anger labels you a fool.” - Ecclesiastes 7:9
Solomon offers good advice regarding becoming angry. Unless we can quench the flame of anger, we will be in danger of making a fool of ourselves. Making a fool of yourself when you are with one person is one thing, but what about when you act the fool in front of a crowd of people? No one likes to act out and no one likes to have to apologize for ill behavior towards another person. It’s bad when it is done to a brother in Christ, but it can be much worse when done to an unsaved person because our personal testimony then takes a hit.
This is what else the Bible says about controlling your anger: “Fools vent their anger, but the wise quietly hold it back.” (Proverbs 29:11) “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” (Proverbs 15:1) There are times when you should simply ‘bite your tongue’, a metaphorical way of saying ‘keep your mouth shut’. It can be far better to say nothing than to ignite tempers with an ill-timed statement. I’ve looked pretty foolish at times in my life because I couldn’t keep my mouth shut. Holding back is a sign of wisdom and maturity. It also shows discernment.
Life can be frustrating, especially the way things are currently going in the country these days. Understanding the way Christ wants us to act and react in any and all situations can keep us from looking foolish. Avoiding arguments at all costs is always the right path to choose. We are being warned here not to fly off the handle for it reveals a weakness in character. Proverbs 25:28 says, “A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls.” Self-control is listed as one of the nine fruits of the Spirit. That’s how important self-control is. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.
Richard Keller
Bread of Life Ministries
Resources: Expositor’s Bible Commentary; copyright 2004; Reformation Study Bible; Ligonier Publishing; Believer’s Bible Commentary; Copy right 2016.
No comments:
Post a Comment