Forgiveness in Marriage: Before Sundown
Tuesday, June 9, 2020
Living Free Every Day®
A ministry of LivingFree.org
Today's Scripture
"And 'don’t sin by letting anger control you.' Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil." Ephesians 4:26-27 NLT
Thoughts for Today
We should not allow anger to linger. Today's scripture cautions us to deal with it before the day is over. Unresolved anger allows Satan to enter our mind and gain control.
Notice the scripture doesn't say anger is a sin, but it becomes a sin when we allow it to control us. And so, we need to take control. We need to choose to ask for God's help. We need to choose forgiveness over bitterness or self-pity.
When we go to bed angry, that anger begins to take control. We probably won't sleep well. And when we awaken the next morning, our first thoughts will be of ourselves and how we've been mistreated. And then our angry thoughts will turn toward our spouse or whoever has offended us. Not a good way to start the day.
Consider this …
You are angry with your spouse and bedtime is approaching. What can you do? First, pray. Ask God for wisdom. Then choose to let go of the anger with His help. If the offense is something you can overlook and put behind you, then do that. On the other hand, if it's an issue that needs to be resolved, approach your spouse with a peacemaking attitude. Even if the matter cannot be settled before the day ends, work through the anger and choose to forgive. Agree to continue working out a solution in the days to come. But don't carry over the anger.
Prayer
Father, teach me to let go of all anger before each day ends. Help me to be willing to let go of the anger and trust you for the outcome. Give me wisdom in resolving the conflict. In Jesus' name ...
These thoughts were drawn from … Committed Couples: God's Plan for Marriage & the Family by Dr. Jimmy Ray Lee. Whether in a private or group setting, couples will be encouraged spiritually and romantically as they research biblical principles that affirm their vows. This book can help every married couple grow spiritually and emotionally in their relationship. It is also a great help for engaged-to-be-married couples.
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