How can we avoid being a "hot-tempered man" in Proverbs 15:18?

◄ How to avoid being hot-tempered? ►

The Verse in Focus

“A hot-tempered man stirs up strife, but he who is slow to anger calms dispute.” (Proverbs 15:18)

Why Anger Must Be Faced Head-On

• Anger that rules us invites “strife” (fractured relationships, distrust, hostility).

• Scripture warns that uncontrolled wrath “gives the devil a foothold” (Ephesians 4:26-27).

• God’s character is “slow to anger” (Psalm 145:8); we misrepresent Him when we explode.

Roots That Feed a Hot Temper

• Pride (Proverbs 13:10).

• Impatience and entitlement (Ecclesiastes 7:9).

• Unconfessed sin or bitterness (Hebrews 12:15).

• Lack of self-control—the opposite of the Spirit’s fruit (Galatians 5:22-23).

Steps to Cultivate a Calm Spirit

1. Recognize the trigger moments.

‑ Name situations, words, or people that spark irritation (Proverbs 14:29).

2. Surrender every provocation to the Lord.

‑ “Cast all your anxiety on Him” (1 Peter 5:7).

3. Slow the response.

‑ “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger” (James 1:19-20).

4. Choose gentle words.

‑ “A gentle answer turns away wrath” (Proverbs 15:1).

5. Replace the heat with grace.

‑ “Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience” (Colossians 3:12-14).

Leaning on the Holy Spirit

• Ask for the Spirit’s control every day (Galatians 5:16).

• Trust His power to put the old nature to death (Romans 8:13).

• Expect His fruit of peace and self-control to grow as you obey (Galatians 5:22-23).

Practical Daily Habits

• Memorize calming verses (Proverbs 16:32; Psalm 37:8).

• Take a brief pause before speaking—count to ten, pray a sentence, breathe deeply.

• Keep an “anger journal” to notice patterns and victories.

• Surround yourself with gentle companions (Proverbs 22:24-25).

• Get adequate rest; fatigue fuels irritability (Mark 6:31).

Encouraging Promises to Hold

• God “guards the heart and mind” of those who pray with thanksgiving (Philippians 4:6-7).

• “The peace of Christ” can rule every reaction (Colossians 3:15).

• He supplies strength “to do all things” (Philippians 4:13), including taming a fiery temper.

Walking in step with these truths transforms the hot-tempered man into a peacemaker who “calms dispute.”