“He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that rules his spirit than he that takes a city.” Proverbs 16:32.

 The largest share of life’s annoyances, its heartaches, its irritations, is due to uncontrolled temper. In one moment, by hasty, passionate, careless words, may be wrought evil that a whole lifetime’s repentance cannot undo. Oh, the hearts that are broken, the friends estranged, the lives wrecked, by the harsh, hasty words of those who might have brought help and healing! … In his own strength man cannot rule his spirit. But through Christ he may gain self-control.

Uniform firmness and unimpassioned control are necessary to the discipline of every family. Say what you mean calmly, move with consideration, and carry out what you say without deviation…. Never let a frown gather upon your brow or a harsh word escape your lips. God writes all these words in His book of records.

Overwork sometimes causes a loss of self-control. …God desires us to realize that we do not glorify His name when we take so many burdens that we are overtasked and, becoming heart weary and brain weary, chafe and fret and scold. We are to bear only the responsibilities that the Lord gives us, trusting in Him, and thus keeping our hearts pure and sweet and sympathetic. –My Life Today, p. 81.