“Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly.”
Take a deep breath. How often have we heard this said in encouraging someone to calm down. That expression is from a very practical place as well as a literal one in this verse. The actual translation of patience in this passage is ‘long in nostril’. A deep breath is often heard as one breaths through their nose while calming down. Short breaths through the nose is the sound of someone whose temper is often about to explode. Literal ‘short in nostril’ for quick tempered’ in this verse. The word for patient is also rendered as slow to anger. James repeats this truth in his book when he instructs us to be quick to listen and slow to anger. Scripture, particularly Proverbs, is full of references to the awful, destructive results of someone who cannot control their temper. James also lets us know anger does not result in the behavior God desires of His children. Patience is the fourth fruit of the Spirit. It is a gift God gives that we are encouraged to practice. Like all the gifts this one allows the watching world to see the difference God’s presence makes in His children’s lives. Patience is rare in today’s world. Often it reveals a supernatural source in those displaying it. Today allow God’s patience to be reflected in you. #BeTheEdge
“because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.” James 1:20 NIV
