A Bad Temper is a Sign of Weakness

Commentary

The riches of a wise person tend to shine as a testimony of his wisdom. On the contrary, no matter what possessions a fool may possess, they are filled with folly and nothing he has can bring him any ultimate profit. People who witness in a court of law have a big responsibility and can have a great influence over other people’s lives. A man who witnesses to the truth may be able to deliver people from certain death at the hands of false witnesses (v. 25). A deceitful witness is in every way the opposite of the true witness. His heart and mouth are filled with lies which may send the innocent to prison or death.

The person who has learned to fear the Lord has laid hold of a great security and protection against a life of waste and ruin (v. 26). For a parent to have a fear of the Lord will also have a great influence on his children. People are a king’s greatest resource. If a king did not have anyone to rule, his title and position would be worthless (v.28). A big title with no meaningful responsibilities commands very little, if any respect from any one. A bad temper is always a sign of weakness (v. 29). Being patient under trying circumstances shows that a person has wisdom. The scriptures teach that the Lord has given to man the ability to be victorious over the circumstances of life.

Application

It reminds me of the time I lost my temper in a basketball game and knocked the ball out of a referees hand. The next day my school principal made me write a letter to the referee telling him I was sorry. It taught me a good lesson and I decided to control my temper from then on.