A fool gives full vent to his spirit,
but a wise man quietly holds it back
proverbs 29:11. ESV
The wisdom of the book of Proverbs is timeless, relevant and can be so convicting.
A paraphrase of Proverbs 29:11, KJV, says a foolish person utters every word but a wise man keeps it in, until afterwards.
Uttering every word can lead to fits of unloving words or actions being vented towards the people we, at one time or another, have cared for.
As we approach the holiday season and family and friend interaction increases, let’s take a look at what the bible says about anger and kindness.
Anger, when displayed for the right reason, is a healthy emotion. The bible talks about “righteous indignation” and points us towards a level of passion to solve problems. In modern terms, this type of anger would align with injustices that we see and some of us face.
Injustices, sufferings and afflictions, rightly make us angry, still we should be angry and we should not sin (Ephesians 4:26-27). Anger towards injustices is a stark contrast to worldly anger which often causes problems.
A hot-tempered man stirs up strife, but he who is slow to anger quiets contention
Proverbs 15:18, ESV
Kindness should have no prerequisites, that is called being manipulative.
It is not about being deserving of kind actions or words but instead imitating the graciousness that our Lord extends to us daily (Ephesians 4:32).
Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy
Proverbs 28:13, ESV
Think of your current trial involving another person. Is this trial an injustice? Yes? Then be angry, but do not be sinful towards them, yourself or others.
Is this trial an offense? Yes? Then seek forgiveness, show the compassion of our Father and display kindness.
A man who is kind benefits himself, but a cruel man hurts himself
Proverbs 11:17, ESV
Trust God. Seek Him. Be Affirmed in Christ.
Affirmed in Christ 