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.

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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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Remember His Words

Luke 24:6-8 NIV

"He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: ‘The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.’ ”Then they remembered his words."

The Gospels capture the most important moment in the history of both the world and heaven—the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Son of the living God. In that moment, humanity was delivered from the shackles of darkness and from a terrible fate—separation from God.

Imagine being a follower of Jesus—witnessing His miracles, hearing His teachings, experiencing His acts of kindness and selfless devotion to the Father—and then suddenly seeing your Savior hung on a cross, suffering immense pain for your sins. What a magnificent revelation it must have been when they were reminded of His words about rising from the dead.

There are times when we become discouraged by what we’re going through or by what we see happening in the world around us. Yet we must remember the hope we carry because of what Jesus has done for us at Calvary.

Knowing this truth, we can live lives filled with peace, joy, and love. Whenever we face challenges, we ought to remember the Word of God, which tells us that God has already overcome—and we too can walk as an overcomer.

Reflection:

Take a minute to reflect on the resurrection not just as a historical event, but as a personal victory. What are the “crosses” in your life that make you feel defeated or discouraged? In those moments, remember Jesus’ words and the power of His resurrection. Just as the disciples remembered and found hope, so can we.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank your for son Jesus and the sacrifice made and the victory You secured through the resurrection. When I feel overwhelmed or discouraged, remind me of Your words and Your promises. Help me to live in the light of your truth, walking in peace, joy, and love. Strengthen my faith to trust that You have already overcome the world, and because of You, I am more than a conqueror. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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