| Proverbs 16:32 – “Whoever is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.” |
Living a life flourishing with the fruits of the spirit includes living one where there is evidence of practicing self-control. This means anger and its unsavory compadres including jealousy, enmity, bitterness, impulsiveness, and strife are absent or are only making rare appearances in one’s actions, speech, decisions and thoughts.
Having self-control starts with knowing from where our strength comes. Remembering our strength “comes from the LORD who made heaven and earth” (Psalm 121:2) helps us navigate through even the most treacherous situations with grace.
Although that alone is a tremendous blessing, today’s text suggests an additional benefit for embracing self-control. That being, those practicing it walk in more freedom, peace and joy than even those having prestige and power.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you LORD we do not have to become shackled by anger, jealousy, strife or other negative feelings. Help us remember it is through your strength we can practice self-control when facing difficulties. In the Strong Name of Jesus, Amen.
- Phyllis Hooten
