Even-tempered

 

One of our older daughters often takes on the role of a third parent in our home. She tends to interject during my discipline of the younger girls and sets high expectations for them. Frequently, she feels the need to offer me parenting advice, often stating, "You're too nice; I would be much sterner with them." The younger girls tend to walk on their toes around her, and I often remind her that she is not allowed to lose her cool.

 

I reminded her that I once thought and felt the same way she does. However, as I’ve grown older and mature, I've come to understand the importance of remaining composed. God has placed a significant demand on His children to maintain their composure at all times, especially those serving within His church.

 

Moses is the first leader that comes to mind when I think of humility, self-sacrifice, and devotion. However, there was a moment when he lost his temper, which ultimately led to God cutting his ministry short. The Bible states that the people “rebelled against the Spirit of God, and rash words came from Moses’ lips” (Psalm 106:33).

 

Moses had every reason to be upset because the people were rebelling against God. His rashness led him to speak impulsively, without carefully considering his words, and he expressed his displeasure. Unfortunately, this impulsive response displeased God, and He informed Moses that he would no longer lead the people of Israel into the Promised Land.

 

Samuel was also a leader in ministry, guiding God’s people with wisdom and integrity. There was a time when the people greatly displeased him, but he had a completely different response. “Their demand was displeasing in the sight of Samuel; so he prayed to the LORD. And the LORD said to Samuel, ‘Listen to the voice of the people in all that they say to you. For it is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected Me.’”

Instead of voicing his dissatisfaction, Samuel presented everything to the Lord. He didn’t lose his cool.

 

The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint, and whoever has understanding is even-tempered. (Pr. 17:27)