How can we avoid being "quick-tempered" as warned in Proverbs 14:17? The Warning in Proverbs 14:17 “A quick-tempered man acts foolishly, and a man of wicked intentions is hated.” What Fuels a Quick Temper? • Pride that demands its own way (Proverbs 13:10) • Lack of self-control (Proverbs 25:28) • Unresolved bitterness (Ephesians 4:26-27) • Fatigue and stress (Mark 6:31) • Ignoring the Spirit’s leading (Galatians 5:16-17) God’s Prescription for Patience • Slow down your words: “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger, for man’s anger does not bring about the righteousness of God.” (James 1:19-20) • Choose gentle speech: “A gentle answer turns away wrath.” (Proverbs 15:1) • Surrender to the Spirit: “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience…” (Galatians 5:22-23) • Remember God’s patience with you: “The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger.” (Psalm 103:8) Practical Steps to Cultivate Calmness • Pause and pray the moment irritation rises (Psalm 4:4) • Breathe deeply—give your body time to settle before you speak (Proverbs 29:11) • Memorize key verses (Proverbs 16:32; Ecclesiastes 7:9) and recite them aloud • Speak softly on purpose; volume often fuels volatility (Proverbs 15:18) • Keep short accounts—confess sin quickly to God and others (1 John 1:9) • Rest adequately; exhaustion erodes restraint (Mark 6:31) • Ask a trusted believer to hold you accountable (Proverbs 27:17) • Replace outbursts with active kindness; serve the person who frustrates you (Romans 12:20-21) Results of a Spirit-Led Response • Wisdom replaces folly (Proverbs 14:29) • Relationships heal and deepen (Colossians 3:12-13) • Personal witness shines brighter (Matthew 5:16) • Peace guards heart and mind (Philippians 4:7) |
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