“A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control.” Proverbs 29:11 NIV

     Like a tree tossed ferociously in a storm is a person consumed by anger. The feelings and thoughts whip one around with hurricane force. The person does not know which way she is bending but words spewed from the mouth in anger are carried on the vicious wind, never to return.

     So much damage can be done and hurtful words hurled about when one is angry and does not seek the Lord’s help to control it. Proverbs tells us “A quick-tempered man does foolish things;” (Prov 14.17) and “A wise man fears the Lord and shuns evil, but a fool is hotheaded and reckless.”(Prov. 14:16)

     We think that if we can express our thoughts and feelings, we will gain control of the situation. But the situation controls us. We know that what we want to say is right and justified but if we spew out our venom, we will act recklessly, tearing apart relationships, uprooting the planting of love, splintering trust.

     When the churning starts, we need to trust the Lord with our emotions and thoughts. Find a place to cool down. And wait for the Lord’s direction on how and what to say.