Lots of guys think respect comes from being tough or getting even. Proverbs 19 says the opposite. Real respect comes from controlling your temper and letting things go.

Let It Go

Proverbs 19:11 A person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.

When someone wrongs you, it’s easy to get angry or get back at them. But a wise man is patient. Overlooking an offense takes more strength than fighting back.

Keep Listening

Proverbs 19:20 Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end you will be counted among the wise.

Respected men are good learners. They listen to advice and accept correction. That’s how they grow wise over time.

The Takeaway

Respect isn’t earned by being the loudest or toughest guy. It’s earned by controlling your temper, letting things go, and staying teachable.

Discuss and Dive Deeper

Talk about it:

  1. Fathers and sons, read Proverbs 19 together, taking turns by section.
  2. When’s the last time you lost your temper? How did you feel afterward?
  3. Why is it so hard to “overlook wrongs”? What does it take to do it?
  4. Who are the men you respect the most? What qualities do they have?
  5. Sons, what’s something someone did to you that you need to let go?
  6. What’s your favorite verse from this chapter? Explain.
  7. Close your time together in prayer.

See also:

Proverbs for Men and Boys (Men’s Series)

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