The Reformed Doctrine of Keeping It Cool

A fool gives full vent to his spirit,

but a wise man quietly holds it back.

(Prov 29:1)

It is often said that love isn’t something you feel, but something you do. We can say the same thing about the elusive quality of keeping it cool. The fast-paced modern world, with all its many advantages, does have some downsides. For one, it promotes stress. And if we’re not careful, we can express that stress in anger.

What is the secret to staying calm under pressure? It’s not a breezy, nonchalant feeling, but a decision to hold our peace when we are full of emotions. With Christ, we can do this. The moment of chaos shall pass, and we will be glad we didn’t speak out in passion. It need not reach beyond our own hearts to others. And when we do vent our angry feelings at others (which we all do at times), Christ is there to purify our lips with the live coal of his cross, which cleanses our sin.