Remember That "Cooler Heads Prevail"

An individual at my workplace recently became angry with someone over a perceived injustice. A colleague of mine listened to his grievance and sensed that his temper still ran high. He gave him the following sage advice to consider before confronting the individual with whom he was having a conflict:

"Cooler heads prevail."

There's no question that as we interact with others, disagreements will arise. However, as discerning followers of Christ, we should take steps to deal with these conflicts diplomatically.

The wise man, Solomon, tells us: "He who has knowledge spares his words" (Proverbs 17:27). This means keeping in check a multitude of opinions that could further ignite anger in others. Someone who displays wisdom, will "think" before speaking (cf. Proverbs 10:19; Proverbs 11:12; Proverbs 13:3; Proverbs 17:28), and then will share only insights that will be of help to the individual in that situation (Ecclesiastes 12:9-10; Acts 20:20-21; cf. Genesis 45:1-15; Genesis 50:15-21).

In this same verse, Solomon also provides us with wise counsel regarding the emotional side of controlling our frustrations, when he states: "A man of understanding is of a calm spirit" (Proverbs 17:27). A mature person exhibits understanding by keeping control of his emotions in any conflict. Problem solving is enhanced by an even-tempered approach.

Dear reader, the next time we become angry, let us stop and prayerfully reflect for a moment, asking God for a calm spirit and the right words to say, remembering that "cooler heads prevail."

 —Mike Riley, Gospel Snippets