I'm Sorry

When we lose our temper, we usually regret what we say and do. In the heat of the moment, we spew out harsh words, tones, and actions that hurt others. Our behavior discredits our ministry and exhibits everything that God is not.

After the emotions calm, our minds think more clearly. We’re able to look back on the outburst and objectively see what we should have done or said. But keep in mind, we cannot change the past. However, by thinking things through, we can formalize a strategy or game plan for the next time our tempers flare. If we have a plan of action, then we can make constructive choices when our emotions push their way to the helm.

When we’ve blown it, we just need to come clean. We need to own up to our mistakes and face the consequences. It is good to seek wise counsel, get some direction on reparation, and apologize. Honesty is so vital. So it’s important to confess, ask for forgiveness, receive the gift of grace, and move on.

Satan loves to torment us with shame and guilt. Once we’ve laid it down before the throne of God and made it right with the ones we offended, we need to put it behind us. We can make better choices if we follow God’s lead. We have a plan of action and know the pain of making a wrong choice.

God is so forgiving. He sent Jesus to pay for all our sins so that we can spend eternity with Him. He bailed us out of eternal incarceration and removed our death sentence with His blood. As we rise from the ashes, we need to look to Him for ultimate forgiveness, unconditional love, and guidance. He will dust us off and set us high upon a rock. He will once again empower us with the Holy Spirit, and we will stand firm.

“In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need. Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.” Ephesians 4:26-31

“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.” James 1:19-20

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9

“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” James 5:16

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