There is something magical about scoreboards. Scoreboards turn ordinary men and women in to raging animals out for a kill. The true character of such men and women is revealed when the scoreboard is turned on. Something deep within bubbles to the surface. Interestingly, the emotion seen most often in such instances is anger, stemming from the short tempers now visible in the glow of the scoreboard.
In full disclosure, I take competitive games seriously, and always have. I’ve had more than my fair share of angry moments on the field during heated games. I’ve lost my temper more times than I can count.
Getting angry and losing your temper are expected in sports. What’s really impactful is to see a person who keeps it under control, regardless of what’s happening.
Proverbs 15:18–“A hot-tempered man stirs up strife, but the slow to anger pacifies contention” (NASB).
Losing your temper only makes things worse in the long run, on the field and off it. There is something unique about a person who is slow to anger. They have the ability to settle things down, to bridge gaps between enemies, and to lead through times of great conflict.
If you want to be normal, give your anger full release. If you want to be uniquely used of God, surrender your anger to Him and ask Him to change you.
Here’s a prayer:
Heavenly Father, My anger tends to get the best of me, both on and off the field. I give it to you. Help me see its source. Make me different. Make me unique and useful to you. Amen.
