DAY 45 IN THE 91-DAY NEW HABIT CHALLENGE! #ProverbsChallenge
When we're slow to anger--less reactive to an offense or hurt or disappointment--we are more aware of the repercussions of an emotional response. We can use wisdom, discernment, and understanding as we weigh our response.
I don't know about you, but sometimes having more control over my anger emotions is difficult. It's difficult to stand back and evaluate what happened.
Have you ever driven in heavy fog? Living in the San Francisco area for a number of years, we had to learn pretty quickly how to navigate foggy conditions.
There are certain rules you follow in order to not end up in a ditch or up the rear-end of the vehicle in front of you. I noticed the regulations are a clever way of helping me remember to watch my anger responses.
First, slow down. When anger arises, our heartbeat, pulse rate, and blood pressure accelerates. Our body is actually preparing to fight. To slow down that response takes focus and intent. Take the time to change our physical response by breathing deeply. Sometimes physically taking a step back, helps our body response as well.
Second, turn on headlights/fog lights. Anger can fog our perception. It's difficult to see clearly. If we know that anger will cloud our ability to assess the situation, then we need help. We need GOD's illumination. Turn it on by praying.
Third, don't turn on the high beams. Inexperienced drivers can mistakenly believe that turning on the headlights to a brighter setting will help them see better. It actually has the opposite effect. The higher beams will reflect back to the driver making it even more difficult to see. If we try to take shortcuts to managing our anger by making rude or snide comments, it reflects badly on us. It also increases our level of anger.
Fourth, assess the danger. Sometimes a fog is so dense we can't see at all. In this case, pulling the vehicle over, putting on our emergency flashers, and waiting until we can see, is the safest option. If anger is so great, the best thing we can do is excuse ourselves and find a safe place to process and pray. Wait for GOD's clarity before moving forward. Otherwise, if we charge ahead we'll run into something--or someone--and cause more damage than what we ourselves received. Sometimes that damage is irreparable.
There's an old saying about managing anger: Count to ten before responding. I think this has great merit, but maybe add a few more counts to pray and receive GOD's insights and wisdom before responding.
May we be slow to anger, my friends.
Proverbs 14:29--One who is slow to anger shows great understanding, but a quick-tempered one exalts folly. Tree of Life Bible Society Tree of Life Version - TLV
#tlvbible #tlvproverbs
#tlvbible #tlvproverbs
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