Calm Down

As churning the milk produces butter,and as twisting the nose produces blood,so stirring up anger produces strife.

Proverbs 30:33 (NIV)

Agitation. Jon Courson comments, “Rather than letting hurt feelings heal, those who continually revisit the problems and rekindle the fire of misunderstanding will make the situation infinitely worse, as sure as stirring milk results in butter and wringing the nose brings forth blood.”

Let’s take an example. Your friend calls. She is livid. Her mother-in-law was domineering and rude on Christmas day. Your friend is hurt and wants to vent. Okay, what kind of friend are you, really? A carnal friend would not just be sympathetic, she would add fuel to the fire, adding criticism and reinforcing the woundedness. This does not help, and it is not true friendship, either.

As true godly friends, this very same encounter could take you both to a higher place, the Cross. First, just listen, but pray as you listen. Sometimes, when people share, they see things more clearly. Then ask, “How can I help? How can I encourage you in the Lord?” Then don’t hang up until you’ve said, “Let’s pray regarding your mother-in-law and let’s pray for her, right now.” I’ve heard it said that you cannot truly pray for someone and hate them at the same time.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God” (Matthew 5:9, KJV).

Make It Personal . . . Live It Out!

Honestly, are you annoyed, irritated, even fuming at someone right now? Anger is a dangerous thing. Here are some tips to avoid the pitfalls and traps.

• Don’t call your friend to vent. Getting her riled up won’t help.
• Don’t just stuff your feelings either. That can turn to bitterness and resentment and depression.
• Take your anger to God, not just once, but again and again until it’s gone.

Let’s Pray

Lord, I come to you alone with this hurt. Please give me your grace to open my heart to release it to you. Free me of this burden. Free me from dark, angry thoughts and replace them with your peace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

One Year Bible Reading

Zechariah 10:1–11:17; Revelation 18:1-24; Psalm 146:1-10; Proverbs 30:33