An Uncontrolled Temper
All of us have a temper. There are things that set us off. We get angry and we express that anger through our temper. Of course, we can express that anger in a godly way or in a sinful way. However, the point is to control our temper. That is a huge problem for many of us. The book of Proverbs shows us how to deal with anger and with our temper, since it such an important part of our life. One truth in this area really struck a cord in my heart. (Proverbs 25:28) God told us that if we do not control our temper, we are like a city whose wall is broken down. That analogy got me to thinking. I pray it speaks to you, as well.
A city with a wall that is broken down in vulnerable to attack by enemies. There could be great harm done to the city when the wall is broken down. Without a complete wall the welfare of the citizens is in jeopardy all of the time. Now, God said that is how we are, if we do not control our temper. This shows the urgency of knowing how to control our temper and doing it well. In reality, none of us can control our temper by ourselves. It takes the power of the Holy Spirit and His direction to us. Therefore, the way to control our temper is to allow the Spirit to be in control of us so that we bear the Fruit of the Holy Spirit. The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. (Galatians 5:22-23) All this fruit is produced in us, when we are allowing the Spirit to be Lord over us. Look at that list! Each characteristic named is so helpful in controlling our temper. When we love everyone, have true joy, and complete peace, why would we lose our temper. When we suffer long with others, and we are kind, doing good, and being faithful, we will not lose our temper, either. Finally, we will be gentle and self-controlled, which allows us not to lose our temper. See what I mean. God has a plan to keep us from hurting others and from being hurt ourselves. It is knowing Christ and having the Spirit's fruit produced in us. I pray we will all learn this and have the Spirit's fruit in our lives.
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Tomorrow, I intend to read Proverbs 26-28.