2 minute read.
Daily Reading: Deuteronomy 29-30 GW; Proverbs 14 GW
Short tempers breed stupidity.
Flying off the handle over a situation has consequences. Anger is a violent emotion, often compared to an erupting volcano. The surge of emotions comes quickly from deep within the soul. Words become molten lava, pouring from our mouths with no forethought. In an instant, damage occurs that can take years to repair, if ever.
Take it from someone who knows; short tempers cause nothing but trouble.
At 52 years old, I’ve worked relentlessly on my anger issues. They stem from my father’s death at 16. Anger is how you dealt with things in my childhood home; a go-to emotion we all knew well. Over the years, I’ve gotten myself in more trouble with my temper than any other way.
But then God.
God’s spirit within me calms the storm. Through Him, I find patience. If I’m facing a situation that I know will infuriate me, I pray. Asking God for extra grace is a common prayer I utter. Seeking God helps me lose my attitude and gain His. Great understanding comes when we place our trust in Jesus.
More of God, less of you.
One way to avoid stupidity is to ask God for more of Him, less of you. Acknowledge that without Him, your emotions can get the best of you. But with God, He will give you what you need to temper your responses. Instead of flying off of the handle, you can become a person of great understanding.
Seek God first in all things. When faced with a situation that angers you, ask God to take control of your mouth AND your emotions. Trust Him in the moment. Watch as God uses the opportunity for His glory.
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Lord God, how grateful we are for you. You are long-suffering for us. Each day, you wait patiently for us to turn to You. Some days we do, some days we don’t. Forgive us for the times we turn from you, relying on our strength instead of Yours. Today, let us seek You. Whatever situation we’re facing, fill us with Your spirit. Give us Your grace, Your mercy, Your strength—more of You, less of us. With You, we can become people of great understanding and patience. IJNIP. Amen
Question for reflection
When has a short fuse made you stupid?
