Breaking the Dam

In February, 1972, construction began for the Teton Dam to be built on the Teton River. It was completed just four years later; however, it would not even last its first filling of the reservoir and on June 5th, 1976, it burst, causing the deaths of eleven people and over 400 million dollars in property damage. After investigation, it was revealed that a large leak at the right side of the dam caused it to fail. Initially, what was supposed to be helpful for the surrounding community, quickly became destructive and what took years to build was destroyed in a day.

Solomon once warned in Proverbs 17:14, “The beginning of strife is like letting out water, so quit before the quarrel breaks out” (ESV). I can think of no better illustration of what Solomon sought to convey than the implosion of a dam.

Dam failures are often the result of multiple missteps, but history shows that some have collapsed due to nothing more than a small leak that slowly grew over time. Similarly, in our own lives, if we are not careful, the dam of our emotions can break forth in anger and bitterness, causing hurt, heartache, and even hatred in others.

A violent quarrel often begins slowly and superficially. First a sharp glance, then a murmured accusation, then a vicious shouting match, perhaps even full of past grievances, and before you know it, people have come to trading blows.

We must be careful not to allow even the smallest leak to remain in the walls of our hearts. Sadly, if our thoughts were displayed when we are criticized, it might go like this: “How dare they blame me! They don’t have the right to talk to me that way! I’ll show them! They’re the problem—not me!” You see, a quick temper almost always stems from pride. We would do well to keep our hearts fixed on the heavenly call to live with humility and love. Proverbs 16:32 states, “Whoever is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city. (ESV)