Proverbs 15:18 (HSCB): "A hot-tempered man stirs up conflict, but a man slow to anger calms strife." As we raise our children, it is important for us fathers to teach them how to be peacemakers and not strife-stirrers. We do this by example of course.
Because children are immature and are susceptible to foolishness, we fathers and mothers must learn the art of being peacemakers. We all know that this is not a once in a while thing but is a ministry that has to be exercised daily. A parent who does not have their own anger under control cannot settle a dispute successfully. A firm, but at the same time, calm spirit can quickly settle the hostility between siblings.
Even strife between adults cannot be settled when one party is angry, or both parties have never been taught how to take control over anger in their spirits. Whenever we sense anger rising in ourselves, we must immediately go to prayer and seek the Lord to give us the strength to keep it in check, or we will quickly become unrighteous. What may begin righteously, if not watched closely, may soon become unrighteous, especially in the case of anger or those who do not know how to control their anger.
The most important aspect of parenting children is to teach them how to deal with their anger from an early age. Being "slow to anger" is one of God's attributes and a godly virtue of those who seek to be conformed to His image.
Our God is a God who is "ready to pardon, gracious and merciful, SLOW TO ANGER, and of great kindness" (Nehemiah 9:17).
"The Lord is merciful and gracious, SLOW TO ANGER, and plenteous in mercy" (Psalm 103:8).
"Turn unto the Lord your God: for he is gracious and merciful, SLOW TO ANGER, and of great kindness" (Joel 2:13).
"The Lord is SLOW TO ANGER, and great in power" (Nahum 1:3).
The Word speaks to us in James 1:19, 20: "Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, SLOW TO WRATH: for the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God."
In the Wild West, a man was famous if he could draw his pistol like a streak of lightning, although he could shoot more accurately if he could calm himself down. However, as far as anger goes, it is better to both be slow on the draw and also keep your spirit calm at all times.
Be encouraged.
Colin Campbell