Topical Bible: Prudence: They Who Have: Suppress Angry Feelings

◄ Prudence: They Who Have: Suppress Angry Feelings ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

Prudence, a virtue highly esteemed in biblical teaching, is often associated with wisdom, foresight, and the ability to govern oneself with reason and restraint. One of the key aspects of prudence is the suppression of angry feelings, a theme that is recurrent throughout Scripture. The prudent individual exercises control over their emotions, particularly anger, which is seen as a potential source of sin and discord.

Biblical Foundations

The Bible provides numerous exhortations to control anger, highlighting the importance of prudence in maintaining peace and righteousness. Proverbs 14:29 states, "A patient man has great understanding, but a quick-tempered man promotes folly." This verse underscores the value of patience and understanding, qualities that are integral to prudence, in contrast to the folly that arises from unchecked anger.

In the New Testament, James 1:19-20 advises believers, "My beloved brothers, understand this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger, for man's anger does not bring about the righteousness that God desires." Here, the apostle James emphasizes the need for restraint and careful consideration, aligning with the prudent suppression of anger to achieve a life that reflects God's righteousness.

Examples of Prudence in Scripture

The Bible provides examples of individuals who exemplified prudence by suppressing their anger. One notable figure is Joseph, who, despite being wronged by his brothers, chose to respond with forgiveness and wisdom rather than vengeance (Genesis 45:4-5). His ability to control his emotions and act with prudence ultimately led to the preservation of his family and the fulfillment of God's plan.

Another example is King David, who, when provoked by Nabal's insolence, was initially inclined to retaliate. However, through the prudent counsel of Abigail, David restrained his anger, recognizing the wisdom in her words and avoiding unnecessary bloodshed (1 Samuel 25:32-33).

Prudence in Christian Living

For Christians, the call to prudence and the suppression of angry feelings is not merely a suggestion but a directive that aligns with the character of Christ. Ephesians 4:26-27 instructs, "Be angry, yet do not sin. Do not let the sun set upon your anger, and do not give the devil a foothold." This passage acknowledges that while anger is a natural emotion, it must be managed prudently to prevent sin and maintain spiritual integrity.

The prudent suppression of anger is also a reflection of the fruit of the Spirit, particularly self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). By cultivating this fruit, believers demonstrate their commitment to living a life that honors God and fosters harmonious relationships with others.

Practical Application

In practical terms, prudence in suppressing angry feelings involves a conscious effort to pause, reflect, and seek God's guidance before reacting. Prayer, meditation on Scripture, and seeking wise counsel are essential tools for developing this aspect of prudence. By doing so, believers can navigate conflicts and challenges with grace and wisdom, embodying the peace and love that are hallmarks of the Christian faith.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Proverbs 12:16
A fool's wrath is presently known: but a prudent man covers shame.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Proverbs 19:11
The discretion of a man defers his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Of Civil Government.
... To suppress this vain ambition, our Lord taught them that ... of so much acuteness and
prudence as always ... pardon those injuries the moment they have been inflicted ...
/.../the institutes of the christian religion/chapter 20 of civil government.htm

Latitudinarian Churchmanship.
... of this faculty as that which pre-eminently insists upon the prudence of right ... in
the cause of religious truth were very great: they would have been far ...
/.../chapter iv latitudinarian churchmanship.htm

Latitudinarian Churchmanship.
... which the Church with such admirable prudence and devotion ... though they might differ
from him, they were all ... estrange many who might otherwise have gladly taken ...
/.../chapter v latitudinarian churchmanship.htm

The Iranian Conquest
... had not the same motives for exercising prudence, and Lydia ... as to make all payments
easy; they were too ... be said of the pieces of money which have been assigned ...
/.../chapter ithe iranian conquest.htm

The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
... a conflict between the party of prudence, who advised ... the Scythians: according to
his view, they held possession ... deeming even Cyaxares himself to have been a ...
/.../chapter iiithe medes and the.htm

Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon:
... ready, some of them should have some particular discourse with Christian, for the
best improvement of time; and they appointed Piety, and Prudence, and Charity ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/mr bunyans last sermon .htm