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

Guys: This section of James is referring to being a Doer of the Word, “Know the Word – Do the Word”. It’s so easy to read and understand with our minds, but the application can be another story. We’ve been trying to address things that can be harmful and damaging to our marriages. In our marriage relationships having a short fuse or being quick-tempered can be a huge problem. Many times when we become angry with our wives, it’s sparked when we are self-centered and not her-centered (That seems to be a reoccurring theme). If anger is a problem, it must be dealt with. It takes going to God in prayer, confessing, seeking forgiveness (that’s a big one) and then obeying what the Word says. If we could be quick to listen to God’s Word, slow to speak (“be quiet”) by taking time in God’s Word, the fruit would be controlling our anger. It sounds so easy, but it takes perseverance to overcome a quick temper. “Direct my footsteps according to your Word; let no sin rule over me.” Psalm 119:133

Lord please help communication in our marriages. Direct us to focus on You and our wives and keep our eyes off ourselves. Thank you Lord for the work you are doing in us.

Ladies: When I was meditating on this verse one of the things that came to mind is what I do that provokes Dave to anger, and how could I change that. I don’t know if any of you can relate, but a good example for us would be when we are in the car going someplace. It never fails I feel the need to be Dave’s personal policeman and make a comment on his driving. I’m clever though, I always phrase it as a question - “Wow, I wonder what the speed limit is? LOL!! I read in a devotional the other day that anger provokes anger. It’s true! Before we know it we are having “intense fellowship” over who knows what, and I started it. I know I’m making light of this and it can be a very serious subject, but if anger is a problem that comes up a lot it might be helpful to check our hearts as wives. Am I saying something when I should bite my tongue, or if I need to say something do I need to change my tone….be more kind? Anger can be so serious when it isn’t resolved. Bitterness can grow so quickly. “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving each other just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.” Eph 4:32

Father, you are the example for wives to follow. You are compassionate, gracious, slow to anger and abounding in lovingkindness and truth. Help us to be like You Lord.

Dedicated to Prayer,

Dave and Diana

Hebrews 4:16