Proverbs 19

“The discretion of a man makes him slow to anger, and his glory is to overlook a transgression.” (Proverbs 19:11, NKJV)

It is not uncommon for humans to slip up in their speech. How many of us can go even one day without sinning with our tongue? Rarely have I regretted the thing that I didn’t say, but there are many things I have said in anger that I later regretted. Delaying anger has an almost magical effect on gaining perspective, especially if we combine it with prayer. This is discretion, and it will save us much trouble.

Moses was the servant of God. The LORD spoke to him face to face, as a man speaks with his friend (Exodus 33:11). Yet Moses lost his temper before the people and misrepresented God.

“And Moses and Aaron gathered the assembly together before the rock; and he said to them, ‘Hear now, you rebels! Must we bring water for you out of this rock?’” (Numbers 20:10, NKJV)

That single act of indiscretion cost Moses the Promised Land. And yet it seems that men are so prone to speak harsh words in anger. It is better to be slow to anger and to wait on the LORD for the right response. We are representing Christ. How often has He overlooked our sins? Therefore, we ought to overlook the sins of others.

In this chapter, Solomon also wrote:

“What is desired in a man is kindness...” (Proverbs 19:22, NKJV)

When we feel anger rising up, rather than unleashing harsh and hurtful words, let us remember kindness. One gentle or encouraging word will leave a positive impression that will linger long after we’re gone.