Slow Enough to Stop

(Proverbs 14:29 KJV)  He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding: but he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly.

Most of us would admit that we should be patient in most circumstances.  We are aware that being “quick-tempered” (7116/7307) is a mistake.  The problem is that we are often just looking at giving the badge of legitimacy to an eventual lashing out.  The point is not that we should put off our anger and not go off half-cocked.  The point is that by putting off our anger it gives the Holy Spirit time to work so we don’t get cocked at all.

Yes there are times for anger.  There are times when a vibrant response is the right thing.  Most of the time, however, it is simply us forgetting that we are to be servants not lords.  The disciples did not get it.

(Luke 9:54 KJV)  And when his disciples James and John saw this, they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did?

We don’t get it.  Patience is not a virtue because it makes us look good.  It is a virtue because it allows us to serve.

So?  Work on allowing the Holy Spirit to douse you anger and have a healthy love rule in your heart.  I don’t know about you but I need to be reminded about this every day after I drive to work.