Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools.
Ecclesiastes 7:9 NIV
Anger does no man any good. It has no benefit, no matter how little or inconsequential it may seem. It only labels one as a fool (NLT). “Do not get angry quickly. That is what fools do…” (EASY) Don’t give the devil a foothold in your life. When we allow ourselves to be easily provoked, we give power to our anger, which can lead us to make foolish decisions. Anger often leads to foolish actions and regret. Instead, we should approach things calmly and with a clear mind. It is important to take time to reflect and respond in a wise manner.
Fools think that they are always right, and they let their anger and pride get in the way of making good decisions. However, if we approach situations with humility, we can listen to different perspectives and make informed choices based on a range of viewpoints. This can lead to more thoughtful and wise decisions, rather than rash and impulsive ones.
Being slow to anger is a sign of wisdom. When we are quick to react, we often say or do things that we later regret. When we allow anger to control us, we may lash out at others, causing harm and damaging relationships.
Therefore, we must learn to govern our emotions with wisdom and grace. We must not be impatient; for it results in anger. An impatient man is not willing to wait for or accept annoying behaviour. But the man that is willing to wait in patience for the good which God will grant him, accepting what He gives with quiet contentment, will walk in wisdom, abiding in the fear and favour of the Lord.
In essence, Ecclesiastes 7:9 cautions against letting anger and pride control our actions and encourages us to pursue wisdom and self-control in all aspects of life.
