What does "like wine with no vent" teach about controlling our emotions? The Word Picture in Job 32:19 “Behold, my belly is like unvented wine; it is about to burst like new wineskins.” Elihu describes an inner build-up so intense that he feels ready to explode. Unvented wine ferments, produces pressure, and finally ruptures its container. The image vividly captures what happens when emotions are corked inside the heart. Pressure Builds When Feelings Are Bottled • Fermentation is invisible at first; the danger shows only when it’s almost too late. • Hidden emotions—anger, frustration, grief—can work the same way. • Without a release valve, the eventual burst harms the wineskin (our own well-being) and splashes everyone nearby (relationships). Godly Venting vs. Ungodly Outbursts • God invites honest pouring out of the heart to Him (Psalm 62:8). • Ungodly venting targets people with uncontrolled words (Proverbs 29:11). • Righteous expression seeks resolution; fleshly venting seeks relief regardless of cost. • The Lord calls anger a valid feeling (“Be angry, yet do not sin,” Ephesians 4:26) but forbids allowing it to fester into sin. Practical Ways to Release Pressure • Speak promptly but respectfully with the person involved (Matthew 18:15). • Pray out loud or journal—let the ferment escape upward, not sideways (Psalm 142:1-2). • Invite wise counsel (Proverbs 15:22). • Exercise or serve others to channel physical energy constructively (1 Corinthians 9:27). • Pause: “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger” (James 1:19-20). What Scripture Says About Emotional Self-Control • Proverbs 25:28—“Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man without self-control.” • Ecclesiastes 7:9—“Do not let your spirit rush to anger, for anger abides in the lap of fools.” • Galatians 5:22-23—Self-control is Spirit-produced fruit, not self-manufactured grit. • Proverbs 16:32—“He who rules his spirit is better than one who captures a city.” Living the Lesson Today • Feelings ferment; they don’t disappear. • Invite the Holy Spirit to be the “vent,” releasing emotion in ways that honor God and bless others. • Regular, honest communion with the Lord and timely conversations with people keep the wineskin supple and safe. |
    |