No Flying Off The Handle!

• What does it mean to be quick-tempered?

• How do people react to an angry person?

Since an overseer manages God’s household, he must be blameless — not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain.
Titus 1:7

Have you ever heard the phrase “fly off the handle”? It means to lose control of your emotions and act out in anger. Where does the phrase come from? Imagine an ax swinging through the air. Imagine the sharp, heavy, metal ax head flying off the handle and shooting off into the air, possibly hitting someone nearby. That’s the basic problem with flying off the handle—there’s a good chance someone is going to get hurt.

In this verse from Titus, Paul describes traits and behaviors that are unacceptable for leaders of the church. One of the traits he mentions is quick-temperedness. God doesn’t want his church leaders flying off the handle.

The day may come when God wants you to lead others. Or maybe you’re leading others right now. One of the best things you can do for God, for yourself and for the people you are leading is to work at controlling your temper. Work to lead with love and patience. Then you will be able to lead people closer to God.

PRAYER
Dear God, please help us to be patient and understanding with people. We pray that you will strengthen and protect those who lead us. Amen.