Take Care Of Your Tongue

Years ago I had a terrible temper and that could erupt over the simplest things. Temper tantrums, shouting matches, pouting, unfriending – all these plus more were utilized alone or in combination to express an opinion, my opinion, so that a personal agenda could be realized. Some call this emotional terrorism but most call it bullying.

It has taken years for me to calm the anger and subdue the impulse to resort to temper explosions. My temper was even hotter before I came to realise a new peace in Christ but I still struggle. It is so much easier to resort to anger when dealing with anger but all this does is heighten the tension and ramp up the anger. The wisdom of the Proverbs from the Old Testament have helped me to further calm both personally and situationally.

Pro 15:18 A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.

Pro 15:1 A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

Pro 29:11 Fools give full vent to their rage, but the wise bring calm in the end.

Ecc 7:9 Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools.

When situations start to ramp up, take a personal time out. Some may think you are pouting or have ceded the argument but it takes a stronger person to hold it back, take a time out to calm and refocus and come back with a peace and comfort that can only come through prayer, meditation and quiet reflection. It has taken years to realize the strength that God provided in time of need and I can fully appreciate the need for Holy Spirit in all aspects of life. When in doubt, pray it out.

This Sunday, we welcome Natalie MacDonald who will be bringing us a message. Sunday service streams on Facebook Live at https://www.facebook.com/todd.macdonald.3158 and starts at 10:30 am MST. We invite you to interact with us as we live stream and join us as we celebrate.

Shalom

Pastor Todd