SLOW TO ANGER (by Favour James - Guest writer)

In a distant land, a warrior named Dave was fleeing from a ruler who intended to kill him. Accompanied by a group of young men, Dave took refuge in the fields, where they guarded the flocks of a wealthy man named Nabby. One day, Dave sent a message to Nabby requesting food for himself and his men. Nabby, enraged, demanded to know who Dave was to make such a request. Infuriated by Nabby’s response, Dave vowed to destroy his entire household. Nabby's wife, Lady Abi, known for her wisdom and beauty, quickly intervened. She gathered provisions and personally delivered them to Dave, pleading for her husband's forgiveness. Dave accepted her plea and abandoned his plan to harm Nabby's family (1 Sam. 25).

A quick temper is a trait of fools, and acting on assumptions often leads to hasty anger. Nabby reacted angrily to Dave's request without first investigating Dave's reputation and the protection he had provided for his flock. If Nabby had taken the time to inquire, he might have responded more thoughtfully. Similarly, Dave's decision to threaten Nabby's entire household stemmed from a quick temper and a sense of entitlement.

It is important to avoid speaking and acting impulsively in the heat of passion. The Bible warns in Ecclesiastes 7:9 not to be quickly angered, as anger rests in the heart of a fool. This incident led to Nabby's downfall; his quick temper resulted in his swift death. Nabby lost his life, and his wife, Abi, later married Dave, who made her his queen. Unlike her husband, Abi chose not to join in the anger but instead resolved the situation and managed to calm Dave.

In conclusion, remember that anger dwells in the heart of a fool. Therefore, be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.

Call to action!

•          When you feel anger rising, take a moment to pause, breathe deeply, and refrain from speaking or acting right away. Reflect on the situation before revisiting it with a calm demeanor. Seek God's guidance and pray for His help.