June 8, 2013

June 8, 2013

Ephesians 4:31  Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.

This is a tall order.  I know I would be a better and happier person if I could do this.  But it just ISN'T fair that people treat me or others so badly.  Not brawling is the easy part--I have never brawled, nor do I intend to start brawling.  Bitterness--yes, I hold onto that.  Rage--it doesn't last, and I can let go of it rather quickly.  Anger--it burns inside me, and the edges of it are inflamed with hurt.  I see my own good intentions, and I see the poor response, or the lack of response, and I am angry all over again.

So I must focus on bitterness and anger.  Bitterness is an ugly word, and I know it only hurts me when I hold onto it and when I let anger stir up the old bitterness again and again.  I resolve to let go and give both to God.
Amen

Prayer:  Lord, help me to give you my bitter, hurt feelings.  Protect me from my own angry impulses.