Proverbs 29

“A fool gives full vent to his spirit, but a wise man quietly holds it back” (v11). The proverbs teach us about the blessing and peace that comes from self-control, and, in contrast, the dangerous results of angry, unstrained speech.  The “fool only rages and laughs” (v9), not caring about the consequences, and “a man of wrath stirs up strife” (v22).  The godly “delight” and “rest” of a well-ordered life is based on the discipline, or careful training, of our impulses and reactions (v17).

“Scoffers set a city aflame, but the wise turn away wrath” (v8).  As God’s children, we are called to be peace-makers in our homes and in our world.