LIFE SCRIPTS

Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools.
Ecclesiastes 7:9 NIV

Provocation is a major cause of anger. This is a deliberate desire to wrong another. A desire to bring the worst out of people. Provocation can be repetitive. It could involve our neighbors, family, workmates and even friends. None of us desires a situation where they are always with people who’s desire is to provoke them. However, sometimes, this is just the case. Take an example of a person who’s provoked constantly by his workmates because of his faith or the way he speaks or where he comes from. Provocation is part of our daily lives. We sometimes feel that some people around us are out to get to us and draw the worst out of us. However, this passage reminds us that when provocation comes, we should not be quickly provoked in our spirits. A person who’s angry from provocation falls into the trap the provocateur has placed on his way. The best reaction towards one who is provocative is to refuse to take offense. That way, he or she will ultimately be worn down and cease the provocations. This is the way of wisdom.