Proverbs 19:11 The discretion of a man defers his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression.

Biblical examples illustrate what it means to be patient and slow to anger: Joseph (Gen. 40:15) – Though unjustly imprisoned and mistreated by his brothers, Joseph did not lash out when he later gained power; instead, he forgave and preserved them. Moses (Num. 12:1-16) – When criticised by Miriam and Aaron, Moses did not retaliate; he humbly interceded for them. David (1Sam. 24:1-22; 26:5-25) – Twice David spared King Saul’s life even though Saul sought to kill him, showing remarkable patience and restraint. The Prophet (1Kin. 13:6) – When King Jeroboam’s hand withered after defying God, the prophet prayed for his healing instead of rejoicing in his punishment. Each of these demonstrates patience rooted in wisdom and trust in God’s justice.

Forgiveness and refusal to retaliate are seen vividly in Scripture: Isaac (Gen. 26:13-30) – Instead of fighting over wells stolen by others, Isaac moved on, showing peaceable restraint. David (1Sam. 18:9-24:22) – Though Saul wronged him repeatedly, David honoured Saul as king and refrained from vengeance. Jesus Christ (Luke 23:34) – On the cross, Jesus forgave those who crucified Him: “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” Stephen (Acts 7:60) – While being stoned, Stephen echoed Christ’s mercy, praying for his killers’ forgiveness.

Believers are called to put aside anger and extend forgiveness modelled after Christ’s example (Eph. 4:31-32). Patience and forgiveness flow from understanding how much we’ve been forgiven (Col. 3:12-13). Human anger rarely leads to godly outcomes; self-control honours God (Jas. 1:19-20). The New Testament echoes Proverbs’ wisdom: passing over transgression and trusting God to handle justice (Rom. 12:17-21).

Proverbs 19:11 The discretion of a man defers his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression. 

This proverb highlights two admirable traits of a wise and godly person: [1] A sensible man prolongs patience, not anger. A discerning person exercises self-control and delays his anger rather than allowing his emotions to flare up quickly. Quick-tempered reactions often lead to strife and regrettable actions. Wisdom chooses to consider the situation carefully, weigh motives, and respond appropriately rather than impulsively. Patience is not weakness; it is strength under control (Jas. 1:19-20). [2] He passes over transgressions and does not expose or shame others. Instead of magnifying someone’s offence or seeking retaliation, a wise person forgives and chooses not to publicly expose others’ faults (compare 1Cor. 13:4-7, “love covers all things”). This builds peace and relationships rather than division and bitterness. Forgiving others reflects God’s own gracious nature.

True strength is shown not in anger but in self-restraint and forgiveness. Patience and grace restore relationships and reflect God’s own character. It is more glorious to cover an offence than to expose it unnecessarily or retaliate. A forgiving heart fosters peace and avoids cycles of revenge. To be continued…