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The writer of Proverbs wrote some wise words about how to cool down anger. in Proverbs 29:8, says:
“Scoffers set a city aflame, but the wise turn away wrath.”
Proverbs 29:8, English Standard Version
We always have a choice whether to be reactive or effective in our response to others. Have you ever reacted too quickly in anger in a tense situation, blurting out something you later regretted? If so, you’re in good company. Everyone has done this at one time or another. In the heat of the moment, how can you cool down anger?
It’s amazing how rational words can quiet an angry mob. A soft voice can quell unrest, while angry words fuel mobs. It doesn’t take much to escalate things if emotions are already high.
Picture a glowing campfire on a cool summer night. Friends gather around, roasting marshmallows and laughing. Suddenly, one of the logs falls off the fire. It’s still glowing hot. Everyone looks at it, wondering if anyone will pick it up. You’re tempted. It’s hot, but you could restart another big fire with it. Some people might get burned, but it might be worth it.
You look around and see the friends you love. You wonder what relationships you will scorched if you pick up that log. Is it really worth burning bridges? With wisdom, you carefully pick up the fire tongs and put the glowing log back on the controlled campfire, where marshmallows roast and the coals warm hearts.
Though hot topics may tempt you to take them up and burn people you think are wrong, a wise person will turn away, cool down anger, and choose to love instead.
Loving God, thank You that I don’t have to rely on myself to cool down anger. Help me surrender my heart fully to You so that You can shine through me. My flesh wants to lash out when I’m provoked, but that’s not the way Jesus lived, and it’s not the way I should live. Let me follow His example with the help of the Holy Spirit. I want to be a peacemaker, turning away from wrath and quieting the crowds. I ask this in the name of the Prince of Peace. Amen.
Listen now to the short version of this Abide meditation, “Cool Down Anger,” based on Proverbs 29:8. Let God speak to your heart about the role you can play in being a peacemaker.
Let Abide be your daily companion as you learn to cool down anger in every situation. Our more than 1500 daily meditations all exist to help you draw closer to God and be at peace. Download the app and start a premium subscription. This will gain you access to our entire library of content. Use this link for 25% off.
