ACT or REACT

Conflict is never a desirable interaction, but God has deemed it necessary to produce spiritual growth in us and conformity into the image of Jesus Christ. But, LORD, is there another way? Nope! We must trust God's process! So this week, join our Devotional Team and be prepared for the challenge of the topic, "Resistance to Anger and Hate in Conflict." Purpose to commit these scriptures to memory and watch what the Lord will do!

An old Latin proverb says, “He who goes to bed angry has the devil for a bed-fellow so never take your enemies to bed with you.” Anger is an emotional response to a perceived wrong or injustice. Our many different circumstances or tribulations can easily cause us to respond with anger if we feel hurt or threatened. Conflicts are inevitable, but misery is optional as we journey with Christ.

James 1:19-20 says, “So then, my beloved, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.” Do we act or react? When we choose to act by the Holy Spirit, we make the choice to do what we do heartily as unto the Lord because we know that we serve Christ, and we will have to give an answer ultimately to Him (Colossians 3:23-24). We can choose to give a soft answer that can turn away wrath instead of harsh words that stir up anger (Proverbs15:1).

No, the devil should not be invited to be our bedfellow because the Blessed Holy Spirit can empower us to yield to Him and experience His love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self- control. Hallelujah for His Power!!

Prayer: Precious Holy Spirit thank You that You are always available for strength when we want to walk after the flesh and not after the Spirit. May we choose to act and not react as a testimony to Your Great Power.
By Sis. Cheryl Torain