Anger is a powerful emotion. Not only can it be harmful to the person on the receiving end, but also to the one administering it. We seem to be on a road to self destruction when we see that fuse getting shorter and shorter – when the pressure cooker is about to let off steam – or Wiley Coyote once again sets a trap for himself.

What has happened to our world when the way to settle disagreements has come to this? The tongue is just as lethal as any weapon. The pen can be equally harmful. Words cannot simply be deleted. They leave an indelible mark on the receiver’s heart. When we allow anger into our lives, we are closing the door to logic, understanding and compromise.

Anger can eat away at us like a cancer. It’s a slow death with a great deal of pain involved. It starts small and grows into an uncontrollable force. Like all our other emotions, we have to put a cap on this one or it will destroy us.

Lord, God, you have every right to be angry with me and my behavior. I don’t deserve the wonderful forgiveness you grant through your Son. You are slow to anger. Help me to choose my words wisely. To think before I speak. To hold myself accountable. May I use your amazing example for guidance on how to control my own temper. Amen!