The Greatest is Love

Now we see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God now knows me completely. Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love. – 1 Corinthians 13:12–13

Until you are with Jesus in heaven there will be things in life that will not make sense, bring discouragement and pain, and make you angry. In those moments, remember what you have learned.

First, take a breath. If you pause when anger strikes, you will create a shift that can change the outcome in a positive way. Taking a breath provides the opportunity to respond in the best way possible and helps to re-center your thoughts and emotions.

Second, share what has angered you and release the emotion and feelings you are experiencing. The goal of communication is twofold: to not bury your anger inside, and to have a safe place to share. If you need to share deep pain and anger, do so with a supportive person who can help you navigate through the rage. If you need to share with your offender, create clear expectations regarding what would help you resolve the situation, or clarify that there is nothing that can be changed, but that you need to communicate your feelings. Remember how you communicate is vital.

Finally, understand that learning a new way of dealing with anger is a lifelong journey. In times of confusion, when life doesn’t make sense and you feel anger, ask God to help you understand, accept, and know what to do.

God loves you and will always be there for you. Even when the hardest situations come your way, God is faithful and will make a way through.

If we have got the true love of God shed abroad in our hearts, we will show it in our lives. We will not have to go up and down the earth proclaiming it. We will show it in everything we say or do. – Dwight L. Moody

Learn to commit every situation to God and trust him for the outcome. God’s love for you never changes, no matter what problems you face or how unsettled life becomes. – Billy Graham

TODAY’S PRAYER

Lord Jesus, thank you for your love and grace! Help me continue to seek you daily. As I grow in your wisdom and grace, I am confident that you will work all things for the good. Thank you for the strength to follow you. You are worthy of praise! Amen.

Taken from 100 Days to Freedom from Anger copyright © 2021 by Stephen Arterburn and Becky Brown. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved.