One who is slow to anger is better than the mighty; one who rules his spirit, than he who takes a city.
–Proverbs 16:32
Those to whom winning comes easy have often been the people’s favorites.
“If you can protect us, then you must be able to lead us,” the rationale goes. However, renowned military generals have turned into presidents with questionable human rights records. Corrupt business owners who don’t pay fair wages have found themselves in the midst of strikes and uprisings.
In everyday life, no one wants to live on a battlefront.
It is not easy to share life with the one who must always be right, the one eager to conquer the conversation, the one knocking everyone down with their critical eye and judgmental hand. No one wins fans or family by shaking fists or biting words.
Jesus was the ultimate winning warrior.
He won His arguments with reason and logic, not by forcing His will on His listeners. He taught His lessons calmly, using everyday, commonplace objects to illustrate divine truths. He reprimanded His disciples with quiet love and respect. All was done with measured words and controlled emotions.
Jesus led with love. When you live in Christ, you can too.
Prayer
Dear Jesus, Thank You for fighting my battles for me. Thank You for leading with love. Help me to look to You for guidance when I am tempted to give in to anger. You are my inspiration, always. Amen.
Reflection
In what area of my life do I most struggle to lead like Jesus? I will talk to God about this today.