Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him; do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, because of the man who brings wicked schemes to pass. Cease from anger, and forsake wrath; so not fret—it only causes harm. (Psalm 37:7-8)
In comparing the two sons of Isaac, the Bible says that the younger, Jacob, was a “temperate (or mild) man” (Genesis 25:27). The Hebrew word translated as “temperate actually means “whole” or “complete.” His brother on the other hand was impulsive and quick to give into his emotions and appetites — a deficiency that came to bear on a day when Jacob had cooked some red stew. The point, though, is that Jacob did not allow his emotions to rule him — he ruled his emotions. He knew that Esau was the oldest son and, consequently, in line to receive the birthright and blessing. But he also knew that Esau was unworthy of both and, therefore, he waited patiently for the Lord to bring to pass what had already been ordained.
It is very easy to get frustrated and even angry when it seems that carnal people have their way. It is particularly maddening to see this if you know that the Lord has something in store for us but the wicked are standing in the way of that coming to pass. Still, we must calm ourselves and not allow our emotions to rule in this or any situation. I’m firm believer that speaking or acting when angry is the worst thing a person can do. I have never acted out of anger and afterwards considered my enraged actions to be some of the best decisions I’ve ever made; to the contrary, it only causes harm, and sometimes, irreparable harm at that.
Impatience, anger and worry are things that, more often that not, work against us when we are trying to fulfill the Father’s will in our life. Impatience can cause us to get ahead of God; anger can cause us to act rashly and delay if not derail what God wants to do. Fret and worry can choke out faith and trust and transform our life into one of defeat rather than victory. As Messiah said, worrying about things doesn’t change the outcome, and as David said, it only causes harm. So then, in spite of what others may plotting and planning, we must train ourselves to rule our emotions and not be ruled by them. We must trust God to bring about His purpose in the time He has chosen and, therefore, we should rest in Him and wait patiently for His Will to be manifest.
Blessings and Shalom,
Bill
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