“Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared.

​​–Proverbs 22:24-25

​​​

Annotation: Proverbs warns against forming close relationships with people who are easily angered, as their behavior can negatively influence us.

​

Note: This verse underscores the importance of surrounding ourselves with people who demonstrate patience and self-control.

​

This passage offers a warning about the influence that people with bad temperaments can have on those around them. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:
 

Key Points:

1. "Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person":

   • The term "hot-tempered" refers to someone who has a quick and explosive temper, prone to anger and rash reactions. This kind of person tends to act impulsively, often without thinking through the consequences of their words or actions.
      

   • The proverb is advising against forming close friendships with such people because their emotional instability can negatively impact you over time.
      

2. "Do not associate with one easily angered":

   • Similar to the first part of the verse, this reinforces the idea of avoiding close association with someone who is easily angered.
      

   • People who are easily angered may create a toxic environment, and being around them can provoke unnecessary conflict, stress, or emotional turmoil.
      

3. "Or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared":

   • The warning here is that bad company can influence your behavior. If you spend too much time with someone who is quick-tempered, you might begin to adopt their tendencies. You could become more prone to anger, react impulsively, and act in ways that are harmful to yourself and others.
      

   • The idea of getting ensnared suggests that you might find yourself trapped in negative behaviors or situations due to the influence of such a person. The "snare" could be the damaging consequences of acting out of anger or making unwise decisions because of poor role models.
      

Wisdom and Influence:

• This passage emphasizes the power of influence in relationships. The people you associate with can shape your behavior and mindset, either for good or for ill. Proverbs, in general, frequently highlights the importance of choosing companions wisely because of the profound effect they can have on your character and life direction.
   

• Anger is a destructive emotion, and people who are quick-tempered often struggle with controlling it. Their reactions can lead to a cycle of conflict, hurt feelings, and poor decisions, which could negatively affect those who are close to them.
   

Application:

• The wisdom here is to surround yourself with people who are peaceful, patient, and wise. Choose friends who are slow to anger and who promote calm, rational decision-making. These kinds of relationships will foster growth and stability in your own life.
   

• Avoid relationships where you might be drawn into toxic patterns, such as constant conflict or rash decisions driven by anger. You might need to be more discerning in the types of friendships you cultivate, being mindful that unhealthy friendships can easily lead to personal harm.
   

Conclusion:

Proverbs 22:24-25 warns about the dangers of forming close relationships with people who have a hot temper or are easily angered. Such individuals can negatively influence your own behavior, causing you to adopt unwise and potentially harmful habits. The advice is to choose your companions carefully, ensuring that you surround yourself with people who exhibit patience, self-control, and wisdom—qualities that contribute to a healthier and more peaceful life.

​​

Additional Information:

Read the full chapter and find more resources at biblegateway.com (external site)>>

​

Next - Romans 2:8 (Angry)>>

Main Menu>>