Proverbs 16:32
"It is better to be patient than powerful; it is better to have self control than to conquer a city." (NLT)

This is a very important verse that affects the whole Christian life.
Many of us struggle with a bad temper and this verse serves as a
reminder that only fools rush in, saying things without thinking and
acting in ways that are unlovely.

I have memorized this verse in the KJV and like the way it is stated,
"He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty...." It's hard to keep one's temper and it shows great personal strength do so. The KJV goes on to say, "and he that ruleth his spirit than he who taketh a city." It is harder to control yourself than it is for a warrior to invade and capture an entire city! What a lesson to learn!

No wonder James 3:8 warns us "but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison." How hard it is to say the right thing. Even harder is NOT saying the wrong thing.

Mary Slessor was a great example of a controlled temper. As a nineteenth century missionary, Mary went into the deepest parts of Africa and dealt with mean-spirited, violent men. But through all her dealings with the native people, she remained calm and steady. Her reward? She won the love and respect of the African people and saw many of them come to a true knowledge of God. She was so loved she became known to the natives simply as "Ma".

Do you struggle with your temper? When you get busy or tired, is it easy for you to be provoked? When you are provoked, do you behave in an unseemly manner? Why not memorize this and take it to heart. Use it as a reminder to practice self control in your everyday life and relationships.