As we mentioned yesterday (see archives), our vision is that this devotional site will help us take the “Putting It Into Practice” to the next level.

In last Sunday’s message we talked about the qualities that establish a LIFE of Influence. Let’s apply the next one:

NOT QUICK-TEMPERED:
Anger, is not necessarily wrong. But, the Bible warns us to not take matters into our own hands. We know the Scripture teaches us that: “the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God” (James 1:20). If we take a good look inside, we realize that most of our anger is self-centered and directed toward people and not sin.

This Greek word for anger (Orgilos) used in Titus, does not refer to occasional emotion of anger. This word speaks specifically to a lifestyle and propensity to anger. The quick-tempered person is touchy and grumpy and very often seems to snap back. He has a “short fuse” and is easily provoked.

Wherever there is a short fuse, it is a good thing to look and see what needs to be resolved. A short-fuse is a warning sign. We may need:
· Rest (emotional and/or physical exhaustion takes a toll)
· To clear our conscience (when God has convicted us of something we are doing wrong…we use excessive emotional energy to cover our sin and become short-tempered).
· Spiritual Food (when we fail to feed on the Word of God we become spiritually malnourished and walk after the flesh and not after the Spirit).
· To trust God more fully (anxiety puts us on edge).

Have you been quick-tempered lately? Can you talk to a friend about it? The Scripture says: “Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed…” (James 5:16).

Do you need to change your diet, take a walk, exercise or get some extra rest?

Is there something you need to make right with God and/or someone else?

A LIFE of influence seeks to serve others. Serving others requires that we take the focus off of ourselves and look at them. If we fail to listen and show genuine concern, we hinder the relationship. If we want others to sense that we are serving them, we can’t always blow up like it is really about our agenda and not their need!

Check the fuse! If it is too short, ask God to show you how to fix it! Let your faith permeate every area of your LIFE.

Father,
I know that You accept me through the Lord Jesus. I know that my worth is not measured by me controlling every circumstance and making my life “look” perfect.
Fill my cup Lord. I need for Your life to flow through me. Build in me the patient response that demonstrates love to those You have placed in my life. Deliver me from the self-centered short-fuse.
In Jesus Name, Amen.