From The Pastor’s Pen – By Brian Horrobin
I read a terrific quote once that really made me sit up and take notice.
Here it is: “When you can’t control what’s happening, challenge yourself to control the way you respond to what’s happening. That’s where your power is.”
Earlier in my married life I really struggled with anger.
Little things seemed to set me off.
I would blame others, thinking that it was their behaviour or attitudes that got my blood boiling.
I eventually realized, though, that I could not change people, I could only change myself and how I reacted to these people.
I came across an incredible statement in Proverbs 15:2: “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
I prayed and asked God to help me and then I started practising what that verse taught.
When others pushed my buttons and I was tempted to get into a heated argument with them, I simply practised talking softer (and slower!) instead.
I found that my own anger subsided, and the potential conflict dissipated.
I am a person with a loud voice and a passionate personality, so achieving success in this area took quite a bit of time.
However, I have found the hard work to be worth it.
Where previously I felt as if matters were out of control, I now feel a sense of power over my circumstances.
It all depends on how I choose to respond.
You have the same choice.
When you cannot control what’s happening, at least take charge of yourself and control how you respond in that situation.
Maybe you’ll even have a chance to put this into practice this week!
