The discretion of a man makes him slow to anger, And his glory is to overlook a transgression. Proverbs 19:11 (NKJV)

Discretion is the ability to know the right action for each occasion. Deferring is putting off, delaying, or postponing something. Godly discretion chooses to delay and postpone getting angry when someone offends you. It is the mark of a gracious and gentle spirit. It is the mark of Christian maturity, for only immature people quickly strike back.

Most people, when offended by others, bristle with hostility, choose to be hurt, get indignant, bite back, and plot revenge. They have no discretion, for feelings rule their hearts. They do not know deferment, for they react first, then think about it. This is the mark of a proud and forward spirit (16:28; 28:25), contrary to wisdom and grace.

Anger is temporary insanity, which when not released will dissipate; it will quickly evaporate. Often by the next day, we can hardly remember offences of the previous day. But this benefit requires two things - you must defer your anger by not releasing it and you must keep a spirit that glories in passing over offences. It benefits us tremendously if we learn to defer your anger. (14:29).

This is a powerful proverb. If practiced consistently, personal relationships would be perfect and human societies would be joyful and productive. This is true love and friendship. Marriages observing this rule will be glorious. Churches practicing this discretion will be happy and Spirit-filled.

If everyone overlooked personal offences and gloried in the opportunity to forgive, life could be wonderful.