June 4, 2012 (Psalm 60; Proverbs 28-29; Romans 16)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “Fools vent their anger, but the wise quietly hold it back.” Proverbs 29:11 NLT
Observation: Anger has led many people down pathways of sin they did not intend to walk upon. But Wisdom guides a person down the right path, the pathway of righteousness. Anger leads people to say things they really don’t mean, while wisdom guides us to speak the truth. Anger responds out of rage, while wisdom answers with love. Anger makes hasty decisions, while wisdom makes room for right judgment. Foolish people believe their anger must be vented, while the wise understand there is a time and place for all things. A fool’s voice must be heard, while the wise quietly hold their peace. It is better to be wise and quiet, than to be foolish and loud.
Application: Many times we find ourselves in positions that lead us to believe we must vent our anger. Something, or someone, just totally strikes us the wrong way and we feel our blood begin to boil. I was faced with such a situation just yesterday. Yet today, I am so thankful I quietly held back my anger. To have vented my anger would have accomplished nothing. In fact, had I vented my anger it quite possibly could have injured someone dear to me. Sometimes we must stand up and be heard, while other times it is best to just hold back and remain quiet. It is wisdom that guides us in these times. When you are faced with feelings of anger and you feel your blood begin to boil, give yourself a moment to hear from wisdom, she will not make a fool out of you.
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for this wonderful day and the blessings You have in store for me! Thank You for Your marvelous mercy and grace that provide and protect me every day. Help me listen to wisdom and give her a chance to guide me onto the pathway of righteousness. Strengthen me to quietly hold back my anger and listen to the voice of wisdom when I’m faced with upsetting situations. Protect me from being a fool, in Jesus name, Amen!