AUGUST 11, Proverbs 14:17

Paul gets along well with the kids in his neighbourhood. A smart and fun kid to be with, he is also assertive and has leadership qualities which others admire. Despite his strengths, Paul has one big flaw: bad temper.

Paul and his friends love to play basketball in the open court near their flats and will spend hours on end having fun in the court. Sometimes, they challenge other groups of boys to games of basketball and feel jubilant when they win. Many groups are no match for Paul’s team except for one from a nearby secondary school. The challenge has come from these secondary school guys. Paul, assuming leadership, told his team mates to train hard to win.

For hours each day, they sweat and toil. They are happy to do so as they want badly to win their strongest competitor. When the important day finally comes, they are excited and put up a fight. However, the other team is faster and has more stamina. Furthermore, they are more accurate in their throws and it is obviously clear that Paul and his friends are no match this time.

Paul’s team has lost. The boys are all moody. Paul puts the blame on Kok Leong for not guarding the “star” player of the winning team. His accusation causes Kok Leong to be unhappy and for the first time, he opposes Paul publicly. Now Paul is furious! He scolds Kok Leong for arguing with him and challenging his judgment and authority as the team leader. He loses his cool, goes up to Kok Leong, grabs him by the shirt and shakes him very hard. Paul’s behaviour and actions shocks everyone.

Oh yes, bad temper. Many of us are like Paul. When things go wrong, we throw our temper and flare up, offending and hurting others. Don’t agitate others or you will run into trouble.

Thought: Read Proverbs 21:23. This is a verse that can keep us out of trouble.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I have lost my temper many times before. Please forgive me. Help me remember today’s lesson and apply it. In Jesus’ name I pray Amen.