Temper that Temper

By Patti Chadwick
 

Proverbs 16:32
"It is better to be patient than powerful; it is better to have self control than to conquer a city." (NLT)

This is a very important verse that affects the whole Christian life. Many of us struggle with a bad temper and this verse serves as a reminder that only fools rush in, saying things without thinking and acting in ways that are unlovely.

My family and I have memorized this verse in the NKJV and like the way it is stated, "He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty...." It's hard to keep one's temper and it shows great personal strength do so. The NKJV goes on to say, "and he that rules his spirit than he who takes a city" It is harder to control yourself than it is for a warrior to invade and capture an entire city!  What a lesson for your teens!

No wonder James 3:8 warns us "but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison." How hard it is to say the right thing. Even harder is NOT saying the wrong thing.

Do you struggle with your temper? When you get busy or tired, is it easy for you to be provoked? When you are provoked, do you behave in an unseemly manner? You are a model to your teens. You set an example, whether good or bad. You need to set the right example for them to follow in this matter. Usually people live what they learn, so make sure you are teaching your teens to control their temper by controlling your own. They need to learn this lesson early on; their adult life will be all the better for it.

Why not memorize this verse with your family and take it to heart. Use it as a reminder to practice self control in your everyday life and relationships.