Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city.
Proverbs 16:32 (NIV)
Esther 3 depicts Haman, a man who sins against God's people out of pride and anger. Anger almost always leads to regret. It's not about the feeling itself, but rather the decisions or actions we take when in an angry state. Anger can also bubble up 'slowly', in the form of resentment, bitterness, and stress. I made a recent career decision that caused me stress afterwards as I made it under much pressure, rather than with peace and self-control.
In situations where we are provoked to become angry, Proverbs 16:32 reminds us it is better to be patient, than to "go to war" and fight back. We can trust the Holy Spirit to provide us with the awareness and self-control when we ask for it.
Dear Heavenly Father, please guard our hearts against anger and the desires of the moment, and give us peace to accept the situation until we are calm enough to hear Your guidance on how to manage it wisely. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Janet Yung
