Proverbs 16:32 – “He that is slow [patient; longsuffering] to anger is better [more precious] than the mighty [hero; mighty warrior]; and he that ruleth [has dominion or rule over] his spirit [anger] than he that taketh a city.”
Solomon taught his son it is better to be the master of one’s emotions than a great warrior who conquers and brings a city and people under his dominion, but lacks the self-discipline to rein in his anger.
Incidences of “road rage” and violent riots in American cities like Ferguson, MO and Baltimore, MD have become tragic reminders that the virtue of self-discipline is all but lost.
Parents should teach their sons and daughters that a people who commend violence and rioting as an expression of frustration and perceived inequality are on a path of self-destruction. Men would do well to heed the principle our Lord taught Peter the night he was betrayed: “for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword” (Matthew 26:52).
Copyright 2015 – Travis D. Smith