“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)
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Today is the second of a series of five prayers leading up to Marriage Week 6-10 May.
I rarely explode with anger. I tend to internalise my feelings and anger comes out in irritable behaviour, prickliness and critical comments.
I realised some time ago that this form of anger can be just as damaging to my relationships as my husband’s shouts of exasperation (which happen OCCASIONALLY and I know he doesn’t mind me sharing that.)
We’ve both learned a lot about handling anger in a more healthy way over 28 years of marriage…we’ve had plenty of time to practice! Prayer has been part of our growth. Saying sorry to God and each other for the wounds and asking for help in managing our feelings better.
Reflect together on how you tend to handle angry feelings. How might you express them in a more godly way this week?
Prayer (as a couple)
Father God, we thank you that you made humans to have emotions and that you understand angry feelings. Help us to recognize how we handle our own emotions and the effect our behaviour has on our partner. Help us also to handle the feelings of our partner in a gentle way. We ask for your Holy Spirit to fill us with self-control. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Prayer (for others)
Father God, we pray for … and … Please help them to learn to handle their angry feelings in a healthy, godly way. Please guide them with your Holy Spirit and give them self-control. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Final quote
A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare. Proverbs 15:1 (NLT)
