Watch Your Temper -Giving Anger a deadline

Part 2: Don't Let it Linger

Ephesians 4:26-27 (NLT)

"And 'don't sin by letting anger control you.' Don't let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil."

Everyone gets angry. However, we must be careful that our anger doesn't lead us to sin. When anger is in control, it overshadows and suppresses our ability to be rational and logical. When tempers are high, they dull our spiritual senses and our positive emotions. In turn, we arouse negative feelings that can influence us to sin.

Sometimes, we try to justify holding onto anger--especially when the offense was deep or hurtful. But even then, we're still responsible for what we allow to live in our hearts. Anger is not meant to stay with us overnight. It should be dealt with before the day ends. Lingering anger invites unnecessary trouble.

God doesn't want us seething over what happened or taking matters into our own hands. He wants to speak to us and show us a better way to respond. He wants to give us direction and clarity so we can avoid a larger issue, potentially allowing the enemy to wreak havoc in our lives.

If we're not careful, we allow emotions to sit longer than they should, and they start to take root. Unresolved anger is a trap. The sooner we release it, the sooner God can bring healing and restore peace.

Prayer:

Father, I surrender the things I've been holding onto. Please help me not to let anger carry over into tomorrow. Show me how to process my emotions in a way that honors You. I trust You to deal with what I can't. In Jesus' name, amen.

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Watch Your Temper

Part 1: Recognizing the Rise of Anger

Ephesians 4:26-27 (NLT)

"And 'don't sin by letting anger control you.' Don't let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil."

We all have experienced a time when we've gotten angry, and our flesh was more than willing to rise to the occasion and take control. Whether it's a careless driver, a mean coworker, a rude stranger, or a deep offense that leaves us hurt and speechless--anger is a common reaction. But as believers, we're not called to stay angry.

In such moments, we must consciously decide to let the emotion pass without allowing it to dictate our actions.

Anger, by definition, is a strong feeling of displeasure, annoyance, or hostility. But scripture gives it a time limit. Our anger shouldn't linger--it has an expiration date. Whatever has stirred us, we must hand it over to God and let it go. Don't let it fester in the dark, where it can grow.

Anger is a real emotion, but it doesn't have to lead us into sin. Recognizing when it starts is the first step. The enemy is looking for a foothold--don't give him one. Pray. Choose peace.

Prayer:

Lord, help me recognize the moments when anger is trying to take root. Please teach me how to pause, check my emotions, and bring them under control. I don't want to give the enemy any space in my heart. In Jesus' name, amen.

#freshmanna #freshmannainspired #fbibleverse #devotionals #dailybread #watchyourtemper #sinnot #choosepeace #letgoandletGod #godlyresponse

Courage under Pressure

Esther 4:16

“…And so I will go to the king, which is against the law; if I perish, I perish.”

The book of Esther tells the powerful story of how God delivered the Jews from Haman’s plot to destroy them.

Before Esther displayed courage, she experienced a moment of self-preservation. She understood the law and the consequences of entering the king’s court without permission. However, the words she received from Mordecai prompted her to face a difficult truth: if Haman’s plan succeeded, she would share the same fate as her people.

Taking a bold stand under pressure allowed Esther to tap into the power of prayer and fasting. She didn’t do it alone—she called on others to join her, creating unity in their request for favor from the king.

Like Esther, we too can bring our problems and dilemmas to the Lord through fasting and prayer seeking guidance and the right course of action. In-high pressure situations, it’s tempting to withdraw or disengage. But God has given us a bold and courageous spirit to overcome even the most difficult circumstances.

Because of Jesus and His shed blood, we can go boldly into the courts of our Heavenly Father. We have the incredible privilege and honor of speaking directly to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. When we approach His throne, we never have to wonder if He will accept us or listen to our concerns—He always will.

When we take the extra step to incorporate fasting and prayer, we silence the noise and distractions that feed doubt and fear. And when we unite with other believers in prayer, we create a powerful bond that strengthens and uplifts us all.

Today, be bold in your prayers. Don’t let the pressures of life silence you or steal your courage. God is for you, and He is waiting for you to know He is with you.

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