Scripture: Psalm 37:7-8
Be still before the Lord, and wait patiently for him; do not fret over those who prosper in their way, over those who carry out evil devices. Refrain from anger, and forsake wrath. Do not fret—it leads only to evil.
Thought for the Day: The scriptures offer us simple and beneficial advice, and often it is the same simple and beneficial advice offered dozens of other places in scripture. The reoccurring nature of advice should probably clue us to the importance of what is being said. Anger is something the scriptures warn against numerous times, yet we appear to have needed a few more reminders. Dr. Laurence J. Peter, the educator and the one who gave us the Peter Principle, offered the simple adage: “Speak when you are angry – and you’ll make the best speech you’ll ever regret.” People outside of scripture seem to communicate similar thinking on the subject of anger, yet if the invitation to refrain from anger is so common, why are we failing so miserably. I don’t want to pretend I can answer the question within this short devotional, but I think a good starting place might be the opening words of the passage, “Be still before the Lord…” I would suggest that those who spend more time centered in God and less time obsessing over those things they cannot control are more likely to refrain from anger. Seems simple enough, but it will take a little practice. Give it a try today…
Prayer: Where anger appears to be bubbling within me, O Teacher of Grace, provide me an opportunity to be still and know your presence. Amen.
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