From The Pastor’s Pen – By Brian Horrobin
Anger is definitely something to be aware of in our lives and who we keep company with may make a difference.
Consider what King Solomon said in Proverbs 22:24-25: “Do not make friends with a hot-tempered man, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn his ways and get yourself ensnared.”
It would appear from these verses that anger can be contagious.
Earlier in Proverbs 15:1 Solomon put it this way: “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
Many years ago, when my 24-year-old son, Nicholas, was a baby, I was struggling with anger in my life.
Looking back, I am not quite sure what was precipitating it, but I do know that I was causing issues in my household with my short fuse.
I prayed about this and started to do two things.
First, I began to speak softer and slower when I felt anger rising up in me.
I did this to try to diffuse my intensifying emotions.
Secondly, I sought to avoid people who were habitually angry, or even trying to steer away from situations where someone was acting in anger.
I knew that such company would provoke me and set me off.
Well, the Lord really did a deep work in me and helped me to become a “cool head” and not give in to my anger.
If you are someone who struggles with anger, I would encourage you to try the same remedy that the Lord showed me.
Your breakthrough could be sooner than you think!
