Why should we be slow to anger (Proverbs 15:18)?

Answer

Understanding the importance of being slow to anger is one of the most valuable lessons we can learn in the Christian life. Proverbs 15:18 advises, “A hot-tempered man stirs up strife, but he who is slow to anger quiets contention” (ESV). Being slow to anger is a characteristic of God: “The LORD is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love” «The LORD is gracious, and full of compassion; Slow to anger, and of great mercy. », (Psalm 145:8). The Bible provides significant insights on the importance of being slow to anger, and it is essential to reflect on these teachings.

The hot-tempered man mentioned in Proverbs 15:18 is described as “a man of wrath.” This individual is easily provoked or quick to anger. In contrast, a person who remains calm and slow to anger can prevent arguments and halt quarrels. Such an individual naturally promotes peace. The ability to calm contention and live harmoniously with others is a valuable virtue. Jesus proclaimed, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” « Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. », (Matthew 5:9).

Another term synonymous with “slow to anger” is patient. Proverbs 14:29 in the New International Version states, “Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly.” The English Standard Version uses “slow to anger” instead of “patient.” The New Living Translation explains, “People with understanding control their anger; a hot temper shows great foolishness.” By mastering our temper and avoiding foolish outbursts of anger, we demonstrate that we have gained significant wisdom.

Proverbs 16:32 confirms, “Whoever is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city” (ESV). Throughout the Bible, the importance of being slow to anger is emphasized repeatedly.The Bible praises the advantages of cultivating patience and controlling anger: “Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense” «The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; And it is his glory to pass over a transgression.», (Proverbs 19:11, ESV).

As we grasp the reasons for being slow to anger, we can start practicing patience in our relationships. James instructed believers not only to hear God’s Word but to put it into action. He stated, “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says” (James 1:19-22). A wise Christian is one who listens to God and obeys, listens to others, carefully considers what he hears, and then responds with thoughtfully chosen words.

Human anger, as James clarified, is a waste of energy. It is driven by selfishness and ambition and causes division among brothers and sisters in Christ. Anger will not produce the righteousness that God desires: “But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere” «But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.», (James 3:17).

Reacting in anger can cause harm; holding on to anger fosters unforgiveness. However, gentleness and patience create a space for healing.M for healing and harmony in our relationships (Psalm 37:8-9; Proverbs 12:18). Another proverb warns, “Fools give full vent to their rage, but the wise bring calm in the end” «A fool uttereth all his mind: But a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards. », (Proverbs 29:11). If we want to show good sense, wisdom, and discretion in our lives, we will learn to be slow to anger and practice patience in our dealings with others. The Bible unambiguously warns us to rid ourselves of anger and rage and to be kind, gracious, and compassionate to one another (Ephesians 4:31-32; Colossians 3:8).

Psalm 86:15 confirms, “But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.” It is the Lord’s patience—His slowness to anger—that allows us to come to salvation (Numbers 14:18; Joel 2:13). We ought to always be aware and grateful for the Lord’s gracious and compassionate patience, for without it, we would not be saved: “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance” «The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. », (2 Peter 3:9).

It is God’s patience that delays Christ’s second coming and the consummation of history. It is His gracious compassion that holds back His wrath and keeps open the door for sinners to repent. The Lord’s incredible patience

Love and compassion for humanity provide those who have not yet repented with a chance to be saved. God employs time and patience to fulfill His purposes of grace. Considering that our God is patient and overflowing with grace towards us, shouldn’t we mirror His character in our interactions with others?