I lost my temper today, and felt perfectly justified in doing it. But after a long run and walk I finally got emotions under control and realized though I was probably wronged I didn't have the right to lose my temper. Of course that meant I had to apologize, sigh, something I don't think anyone is good at. I know for me it means swallowing my pride and admitting I was wrong. Of course who in their right mind would want to admit they were wrong. Certainly not me, and to know it myself is one thing. But to admit to the other person involved is quite the other.
But what do I do when this type of situation comes up again, one of those circumstances when I just absolutely know that I am right and am the one being wronged, that I am being treated with injustice and unfairly.
Hopefully I've learned for the next time not to answer until I've allowed my temper to cool down a little bit, for me something physical like running is helpful. There is something about the physical pain of muscles screaming and concentrating on putting one foot in front of the other that gives me time to forget what I am so mad about, or to think things through and come to a conclusion in a rational state of mind.
A soft answer putteth away wrath, but grievous words stir up anger. Proverbs 15:1
Yeah I guess I failed that one this time. Instead I used angry scornful words, and after just listening to a sermon on scorn and mockery…sigh. It wasn't even so much that what I said was wrong, but the spirit and attitude that was behind it.
While I do think there is a time when it may be appropriate for us to get angry, but not lose our tempers. I think the only justification that I can see from scripture is matters of God's principles, not my prideful feelings hurt. Even if falsely accused.
He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty man, and he that ruleth his own mind is better than he that winneth a city. Proverbs 16:32
An angry man stirreth up strife, but he that is slow to wrath appeaseth strife Proverbs 15:18
He that is hasty to anger commiteth folly Proverbs 14:17a
It is amazing what a little bit of self control can do, how many hurtful words would not have been said, how many angry feelings would have been checked and examined for what they are, sin. Once the damage is done it's hard to repair, and if I would just control my tongue and temper I could avoid ever having to apologizing. Did I mention I don't like to apologize?
Please excuse me while I go apologize.
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