Bible Reading: Proverbs 15:18
We all have angry words now and again. We all become irritated and frustrated. Anger is a normal emotion. Using anger to bully someone into letting you have your way,
however, is wrong.
Proverbs 15:18 says, “A hot-tempered man stirs up dissension, but a patient man calms a quarrel.” In other words, acting out of anger usually escalates a situation and makes things worse.
How can you express your angry feelings and possible coax someone over to your way of thinking without acting like a steamroller?
* When you disagree with someone, maintain eye contact while you work things out.
* Stay on the subject. Don’t let side issues distract you. Deal with one topic at a time.
* Stay in the present. Don’t dredge up old mistakes from the past. Keep your conversation on the issue that currently has you upset.
* Make physical contact. No, don’t punch the person! Hold his hand. Put your hand on his shoulder. Gently touching will help keep the tempers from rising.
* Think before you speak. Harsh words spoken hurriedly are like throwing gas on a fire. Carefully chosen words will encourage a peaceful, mutually satisfying solution.
* Pray together. Ask God to help you to understand each other. Each of you should ask God to bless the other.
* End the argument. Work through the problem and find a solution. Don’t leave the room angry.
Ask God to help you control your temper and fight fair.
“My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.” James 1:19 & 20
Prayer: Heavenly Father, help to control my temper and to fight fair, not acting badly when I do become angry. In Jesus’ name. Amen.