May 26, 2021

“Patience is better than power, and controlling one’s emotions, than capturing a city.” – Proverbs 16:32

Has your desire to be right or your insistence on winning an argument ever cost you a relationship? Dumb question, right? If we were to recount the relationships in our lives that have gone sour over the years, this is probably the biggest culprit. There is something in us that desires victory. We admire this in our sports stars, our politicians, and the leaders in our lives. In fact, it is an interesting phenomenon that our country has now made even the arts into a competition with programs like “The Voice” and “America’s Got Talent.” Those who are aggressive go-getters…who exert power over others and win the fight…these are the ones the world exalts.

The Bible, however, gives us a very different picture of what it means to be a great man or woman. Proverbs 16:32 says there are greater things that we should aspire to. Do you look up to those who are patient and can control their temper, even in the heat of battle? If not, start paying attention, because they accomplish so much more than the bully or the tyrant. In the end, they are the ones who have maintained healthy relationships and made great strides with the people around them. A desire for more power and greater victory will continue to create tension in your relationships and unrest in your heart. So, heed the warning of Proverbs 16:32 and listen to the words of Jesus: “Take up my yoke and learn from me, because I am lowly and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew 11:29).

Heavenly Father, we know that our sinful nature desires power and control over others. But Jesus came as a servant. He came to repair relationships, namely our relationship with You. Empower us through Your Holy Spirit to live lives of patience and give us a desire to control ourselves instead of a desire to control others.

In Christ’s Service,

Pastor Shane Cannon