Anger

October 16th – 1 Corinthians 16:14

1 Corinthians 16:14

The world around us seems to grow more divided by the day. Where anger is loud and hate is even louder. But as Christians, we have an opportunity to be different. God’s Word reminds us to do everything in love, and that means more than loving those who agree with us or treat us kindly.

Do everything love means being mindful of our words, attitudes, and the way we treat people. Especially when we disagree. We can stand firmly in our faith without being unkind, speak God’s truth without tearing others down, and hold on to our convictions without losing sight of compassion.

It’s easy to respond to anger with anger or to judge someone without knowing what they’re going through. But Jesus calls us to a higher way. He calls us to love our neighbors. To show the grace shown us. And to remember that every person we encounter is someone He loves.

We may not be able to change the hearts of everyone around us, but we can ask God to keep changing ours. So before we speak, react, and before we decide how to treat someone, let’s ask ourselves this. “Am I doing this in love?” May the way we live reflect Jesus so clearly that others see His love at work in our hearts.

October 16th – 1 Corinthians 16:14 Read More »

September 25th – Galatians 6:10

Galatians 6:10

Sometimes the hardest things to let go of are anger, bitterness, and the need to be right. When someone hurts, disappoints, or treats us unfairly, our first instinct may be to defend ourselves, and make sure the other person knows just how wrong they were. We struggle to move past the hurt. And before we realize it, that anger begins to take root in our hearts and steal our peace.

But God calls us to something better. He calls us to lay down our anger, release our bitterness, and stop letting the need to win every argument control our hearts. That doesn’t mean pretending we weren’t hurt. Or excusing someone’s behavior, and allowing others to mistreat us. But we can speak the truth without being cruel and stand up for ourselves without allowing bitterness to take hold.

God wants us to do good to all people. Not just those who are kind to us, agree with us, or treat us the way we think we deserve. All people. We may not be able to change how others treat us, but with God’s help, we can choose how we respond. We can let go of the need to prove our point and trust God to handle what we can’t. Because our goal isn’t to win every battle, but to reflect Jesus in the way we love others.

September 25th – Galatians 6:10 Read More »

September 17th – James 1:19

James 1:19

Self-control is something I struggle with, especially when it comes to keeping my mouth shut. When someone hurts me or makes me angry, my mouth has a bad habit of getting me into trouble. That’s why James 1:19 is something I need to keep coming back to.

God isn’t telling me to ignore my feelings or pretend I wasn’t hurt. He’s teaching me how to respond to those feelings. Be quick to listen. Slow to speak. And slow to become angry. But that’s a lot harder than it sounds.

When I’m hurt, I want to defend myself. And when I’m angry, I want to make sure the other person knows exactly how I feel. I want to explain my side, have the first word, and make sure I get the last word too. But I don’t have to.

Sometimes I simply need to zip my lips, take a breath, and let God lead my response. Because following Jesus means more than knowing what God’s Word says. It means allowing His Word to change the way I respond when life doesn’t go my way.

I may not be able to control what someone says or does to me, but I can ask God to help me control what comes out of my mouth. So today, I’m asking God to help me slow down before I speak and remember that I don’t need the first word or the last word. I just need to follow His Word and respond in a way that honors Him.

September 17th – James 1:19 Read More »

September 22nd – 1 Corinthians 10:13

Week 4 – Wisdom Against Temptation (1 Corinthians 10:13)

Every day, we face countless temptations. Everything from the subtle pull of envy, to the louder call of anger or greed. It’s a constant battle because temptation comes at us in many directions. Whether it’s from social media,  television or movies, relationships, or even in our own thoughts, the pull of sin is strong. But the apostle Paul reminds us of a powerful truth. God is faithful. He won’t allow us to be tempted beyond what we can bear, and He always provides a way out. This gives us hope and confidence that no matter the temptation, we are not fighting alone. That’s why God equips us with wisdom to recognize temptation when it sneaks into our lives, helping us avoid it before it leads us down a destructive path. The wisdom He provides guides us to make better choices and to steer clear of situations that could lead us to sin. When we rely on God’s wisdom and strength, we can overcome temptation and live in a way that honors Him, knowing we have His support in every battle.

Questions For Reflection –

  1. How can we become more aware of the moments when we’re being tempted and rely on God’s strength to overcome them?
  1. In what ways can we use the wisdom God provides to avoid situations where we’re most vulnerable to temptation?

God always provides a way out. Trust Him to guide you through every challenge. 🙏🏻❤️

September 22nd – 1 Corinthians 10:13 Read More »

September 18th – Colossians 3:13

Week 3 – The Wisdom In Forgiveness (Colossians 3:13)

Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “We must develop and maintain the capacity to forgive. He who is devoid of the power to forgive is devoid of the power to love. There is some good in the worst of us and some evil in the best of us. When we discover this, we are less prone to hate our enemies.” It’s tempting to hold onto anger and resentment when we’ve been hurt or wronged. After all, it’s a natural human response. But carrying that burden weighs down our hearts and clouds our spirits. When we forgive, we let go of bitterness and make room for healing and peace. Making forgiveness not just about the other person, but also a gift we to ourselves. And when we reflect on how God forgives us daily, despite our shortcomings, we see the ultimate example of grace. If in His infinite mercy, He chooses to forgive us over and over, how can we withhold that same grace from others? By forgiving, we align our hearts with God’s love, showing wisdom and strength in our relationships. It’s a path to freedom, peace, and spiritual growth.

Questions For Reflection –

  1. How can we practice daily forgiveness towards others, reflecting the same grace and mercy that God shows us?
  1. What steps can we take to let go of past hurts and embrace the healing that comes through forgiving others, as commanded in Colossians 3:13?

Forgiveness is the key that sets your heart free—just as God’s grace unlocks His love for us daily. 🙏🏻❤️

September 18th – Colossians 3:13 Read More »

July 26th – Colossians 3:13

Colossians 3:13

Forgiving those who’ve hurt us can be one of the most challenging aspects of our spiritual journey. The pain and betrayal often feel insurmountable, and can turn into bitterness and resentment. But in those times we face a crucial choice to make. We can be better or we can be bitter. The freedom we have in Jesus transforms our hearts, allowing us to soften and open ourselves to forgiveness. This freedom isn’t about ignoring the hurt or pretending it never happened. Instead, it’s about finding the strength through Christ to release the hold that past wounds have on us. Through Jesus, we gain the courage to forgive even the deepest hurts. Now forgiveness doesn’t always mean reconciliation, but it is a conscious decision to let go of our grievances. One that mirrors the grace which God extends to us. It frees us from the burden of anger and allows us to experience peace and healing. As we choose to forgive, we reflect Christ’s love and grace, preventing bitterness from taking root in our hearts.

July 26th – Colossians 3:13 Read More »

June 22nd – Proverbs 16:32

Proverbs 16:32

Controlling our impulses and the way we react, is a greater achievement than any outward display of power. Because patience reflects inner strength, allowing us to remain calm and composed in challenging situations. To respond with wisdom rather than aggression. Sure brute force can overpower, but it often leads to destruction and regret. Yet self-control fosters constructive outcomes and strives to maintain peace. It takes true strength to hold back anger, to wait for the right moment, or to persevere through trials without giving in to frustration and sin. Patience builds character and fosters deeper relationships, as it demonstrates respect and understanding for others. It allows us to go through life’s ups and downs with grace. To turn potential conflicts into opportunities for growth and reconciliation. That’s why Solomon teaches that true strength is found in the quiet, disciplined practice of patience and self-control, shaping us into resilient and compassionate individuals.

June 22nd – Proverbs 16:32 Read More »

May 11th – Hebrews 10:23

Hebrews 10:23

In the midst of a world turned upside down, Hebrews 10:23 speaks to the turmoil we face. As predicted in the last days, the lines between good and evil have not only been blurred, but flipped upside down. People no longer have trust in their leaders, in their news sources, and even each other. For anger, division, and chaos rule the day. And as the presidential election grows closer, the vitriol grows louder, pushing society further into uncertainty. Yet in these turbulent times, we can cling unswervingly to the hope found in Jesus. His promises stand firm as a beacon of light in the darkness. Though everything may seem out of control, we can anchor our souls in His unchanging truth. With unwavering faith let us stand firm, knowing that His faithfulness endures forever. And as we await His return, let us not be shaken or swayed by the storms around us. Instead, let us remain steadfast. For our redemption draws near, and in Christ, we find our ultimate hope and security.

May 11th – Hebrews 10:23 Read More »

April 27th – Zechariah 10:1

Zechariah 10:1

We are living in violent, angry, and turbulent times. Where love, unity, and understanding are in short supply. Yet as the days grow more evil, they won’t always be so. Zechariah 10:1 foretells of the coming of spring rains, a beacon of hope amidst the darkness of injustice that plagues our world. Right now, everywhere we look we see the flames of injustice burning bright, casting shadows of despair upon our hearts. We cry out, “Maranatha! Come, Lord Jesus!” And come He will. One day very soon, Christ will come for His bride. And on that day, God’s justice will descend upon the earth, washing away the stains of injustice and bringing forth renewal and restoration. As we eagerly anticipate the arrival of spring, let us also eagerly await the day when God’s justice will rain down. Bringing healing to the broken, freedom to the oppressed, and righteousness to the land. May our hearts be filled with hope and courage, knowing that God is faithful to His promises and that His justice will prevail in the end.

April 27th – Zechariah 10:1 Read More »

October 27th – Exodus 34:6

Exodus 34:6

Solomon was a wise man. And in Proverbs 14:29 he says, “Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly.” Boy does that ring true. Patience is a virtue I struggle with daily. And inevitably impatience leads to anger, followed by jumping to conclusions, ending with regret. That’s why I’m so very thankful God’s mercy extends far beyond my shortcomings. In spite of myself, His grace flows endlessly. When I am faithless, His love and faithfulness never waver. Because God’s abundant goodness is not limited by our limitations. It’s an ever continuing supply of hope and assurance. A reminder of His unfailing presence in our lives. And an invitation to embrace the richness of His blessings with gratitude and humility. The world is filled so much anger and division. Jesus warned that in the last days people would become lovers of themselves and money. They’ll be braggers, arrogant, and abusive. (2 Tim. 3:2) May it not be with God’s people. May we abound in love.

October 27th – Exodus 34:6 Read More »