One minute read.
Daily Reading: Judges 15:1-16:31 John 2:1-25 Psalm 103:1-22 Proverbs 14:17-19
Daily Verse: “A man of quick temper acts foolishly, and a man of evil devices is hated.” Prov. 14:17
Distasteful character traits.
Quick tempers and conniving plans will lose friendships. As a person who struggled with anger issues, I can vouch for the truth of today’s verse. Older and wiser now, I’ve learned ways to control my temper, but in my younger days, my explosive outbreaks wreaked havoc.
Learning to walk away from an inciting situation, take deep breaths, and let reason replace anger helps me no longer make the same mistakes. Unfortunately, repairing the damage done with a quick temper takes time and effort. And sadly, some people don’t want to restore the relationship, unable to forgive or forget.
In the same way, if you become known for your manipulations, people won’t trust you. Untrustworthy people can’t have healthy relationships. Both character traits destroy friendships, sometimes irreparably.
Develop a strong character by following Jesus. Don’t let emotions rule your reactions; allow common sense to lead the way. When you stop the anger and manipulations, your relationships will grow like never before.
Lord, forgive us for our quick tempers and manipulations. Help us honor You with our actions as we control our emotions and pursue honest, life-giving relationships. Let us become more like Jesus as we follow Him. IJNIP. Amen
