| I Kings 7:1-51; Acts 7:30-50; Psalm 128:1-6; Proverbs 16:31-33
“Patience is better than power, and controlling one’s temper, than capturing a city.” (Proverbs 16:32)
The Bible is making a comparison between outward power and stature and being able to contain yourself. The latter is more of a solid position of power than the first. You can lose exterior “power” at any time because life is always changing, but if you maintain the inner power of self-control then you still win because that cannot be taken away.
Instead of just striving for outer victories, we need to become champions by using the Word of God and our relationship with the Lord to produce a calm, tempered spirit that can make it through life without losing control. Another aspect is this, if we are led by the Spirit then we hinder the enemy from tormenting us. If someone has done us wrong we do not allow that offense to continue dictating our emotions because we have properly dealt with it and are moving forward. That inner strength is what will keep us level and solid. When we allow someone to push our buttons, so to speak, then we have allowed that person to control us. It is important to meditate on the Word, put into practice what we learn and be led by the Holy Spirit in order to be a well-balanced, peaceful person.
PRAYER:
Lord, I ask You to help me develop self-control. I know that true power comes from being able to contain myself. I refuse to allow circumstances and others to control me through my emotions. I yield myself toYou my Lord. I ask You to enable me to be a quality person and a good witness of what You are able to perform in a person’s life if they will just submit and listen. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen. |
