A word fitly spoken is like APPLES OF GOLD in a setting of silver – Proverbs 25v11.
As we continue our meditations on wisdom in the Book of Proverbs chapter 22, we read in verse 24: “Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared”. Whether we are young and idealistic or people with soft hearts we are easily persuaded that we can be a positive influence and change that sort of person. The reality is we become influenced by them and not only tolerate such behaviour, but start to copy it.
Friends do the sensible thing and dump hot-headed people however attractive, charming and wealthy they are. It is better to be lonely than be the victim of physical, mental and emotional abuse. Children of hot-headed parents emulate this type of character as they perceive it as normal. Parents, we need to break this cycle of unrestrained anger and we can only do it if we pray to the Lord to change us and develop the fruits of the Holy Spirit in our lives which includes patience, long-suffering, gentleness and self-control. Then our families will be a haven of peace and love counteracting all the anger and hate that we see all around us. Next week we will see the difference between being clever and being wise.
God Bless
Graeme Greenwood