A Short Fuse

Proverbs 14:17 He that is soon angry dealeth foolishly: and a man of wicked devices is hated.

INTRODUCTORY THOUGHTS

Anger is often viewed by others as a symbol of strength. From youth, men are taught that one’s strength and authority can be best conveyed through the use of anger. Yet, the Bible teaches that the manifestation of an ungodly anger exhibits a sign of weakness. Anger is a foolish practice (Proverbs 14:17) that resteth in the bosom of fools (Ecclesiastes 7:9). According to Proverbs 16:32, a man “that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.” This is why the Bible admonishes believers to “be swift to hear, slow to speak,” and “slow to wrath” (James 1:19). This trait is so important that God included it as one of the requirements for those who would desire the office of a bishop (Titus 1:7).

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHTS

(For children):God is against the wrong kind of anger (Psalm 37:8; Ephesians 4:31-32; Colossians 3:8; Romans 12:14, 17a). Consider His dealings with us (Psalm 145:8; Nehemiah 9:16-17). We should work on being more like Him.

(For everyone):Are you quick to become angry? Do you, as some have said, “fly off the handle”? Why does it take so little to get you angry or frustrated?

(For everyone):Why is it a sign of weakness to respond in ungodly anger? How does it require strength to stay calm and reason through an issue? How do you most often respond?

PRAYER THOUGHTS

Ask the Lord for the strength to avoid ungodly anger.

Ask God to show you the nature of your heart.

SONG

Draw Me Nearer

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