“A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control.” – Proverbs 29:11
Outdoorsmen are known to be passionate about their sport. Some individuals will spend more time, effort and resources trying to perfect the ballistics of their ammunition or tying a species fly than improving relationships within their homes. I’ve seen professional bass fishermen sacrifice everything in their quest to attain success. At one time or another we have all suffered from the addiction of our passions.
Out of Control
Here are seven humorous warning signs that your fishing may be out of control:
- Your refrigerator drawer is full of night-crawlers.
- You carry pictures of the fish you’ve caught in your wallet.
- You named your kids Gill, Rod, and Stinkbait.
- Cats follow you everywhere you go.
- You practice casting in the bathtub.
- Selling your gear could put the kids through medical school.
- You leave your hot spot on that important lake to someone in your will.
Under Control
I think you would agree that it is important to have your life under control. Throughout the New Testament the Apostle Paul reminds us that we should have control and authority over our bodies, minds, and tongues. The reason he can speak with such conviction is that prior to accepting the Lord as his personal Savior, Paul was an out-of-control guy.
James urges us, “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.” (James 1:19-20) A person with an uncontrolled spirit is unpredictable, difficult to live with, and an embarrassment to God and his family.
Many Christians are angry today. They’re angry at politicians, at the injustices in this sin-sick world, and even with other Christians. But Christ calls us to a life of mercy, grace, and love. If any man ever had the right to express his anger it was Jesus when He was unjustly crucified. Yet, upon the cross He prayed, “Father forgive them!”
If we identify with Christ, then we desperately want His Spirit to control our lives and our emotions. King Solomon said it like this, “He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.” (Proverbs 16:32 NKJV)
Scripture Reading: Ephesians 4:17-32
Personal Application: If someone were to ask your wife, children, or closest friends whether you frequently display anger, how would they respond? If you struggle with anger, ask the Lord to replace it with patience, mercy, and compassion. Ask a spiritual partner to pray for you and hold you accountable.
Wendell Morton and Jim Grassi, D. Min.
We cherish any verse in Scripture that reminds us to keep focused and intentional about evangelism and discipleship. “But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.” 2 Timothy 4:5