BE “SLOW ABOUT WRATH”

[Bible Speaks]

BE “SLOW ABOUT WRATH”

"Return evil for evil to no one. Take into consideration what is fine from the viewpoint of all men. 18 If possible, as far as it depends on you, be peaceable with all men. 19 Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but yield place to the wrath;  for it is written: “‘Vengeance is mine; I will repay,’ says Jehovah.” 20 But “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by doing this you will heap fiery coals on his head.” 21 Do not let yourself be conquered by the evil, but keep conquering the evil with the good." (Rom. 12:17-21)

"Know this, my beloved brothers: Everyone must be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger, 20 for manÂ’s anger does not bring about GodÂ’s righteousness. 21 Therefore, put away all filthiness and every trace of badness, and accept with mildness the implanting of the word that is able to save you." (James1:19-21)

BE “SLOW ABOUT WRATH”

 We are not always patient with those whom we love. “To the holy ones and faithful brothers in union with Christ at Colossae,” the apostle Paul wrote: “You husbands, keep on loving your wives and do not be bitterly angry with them. You fathers, do not be exasperating your children, so that they do not become downhearted.” (Col. 1:1, 2; 3:19, 21)

Paul exhorted the Ephesians: “Let all malicious bitterness and anger and wrath and screaming and abusive speech be taken away from you.” (Eph. 4:31)

Cultivating long-suffering, mildness, and self-control—aspects of the fruitage of God’s spirit—will help us to stay calm even when under stress.—Gal. 5:22, 23

Consider the example of Jesus. Imagine the immense stress that he was feeling at the last evening meal he had with his apostles. Jesus knew that within hours he would die a slow and painful death. The sanctification of his Father’s name and the salvation of the human family depended on his faithfulness. 

Yet, at that very meal, there “arose a heated dispute among [the apostles] over which one of them seemed to be greatest.” Jesus did not scream at them or express bitterness toward them. Instead, he calmly reasoned with them. Jesus reminded them that they had stuck with him during trying times.

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