This morning, I am thankful for the freedom to utilize my voice and the act of wise choice.
A person without self-control is like a city with broken-down walls. – (Proverbs 25:28, NLT)
Yesterday, this was a guiding principle throughout my day. Due to a serious lack of sleep from the night prior, I knew that I would have to choose my words and conversations carefully, as I was too tired to maintain my typical filter that upholds the self-control afforded to me by Christ. When words escape without warning and no control is exercised, boundaries that are built for good, can be broken, and irreparable harm can happen. Most whom I encountered throughout my day, were gracious and kind, and I managed to navigate the school day unscathed. Unfortunately, later in the afternoon, assumptions expressed through electronic communication toward me, made my temper flare. I knew that to engage in such banter would only lead to harm. Rather than opting to engage, I went to my kettlebell class and worked out my rage. By the time I arrived back home, I only had the energy to love and check in with my cherubs about their homework, and then call it a day. We have the choice to exercise self-control and uphold the safety and security within ourselves, or we can give our power away, by losing control and allowing another’s words or actions to have influence over us. May we choose to submit to Christ alone, who grants us self-control, and is our fortress and strong tower at all times.
God grants self-control,
to walk in His grace;
to shore up safe walls,
keep us in right space.
He gives us wisdom,
so we are aware;
of when to engage,
or get out of there.
He provides escape,
outlets for our fear;
strength where we are weak,
He always is near.
We thank You, O God,
for wisdom and choice;
self-control granted,
as we use our voice.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You give us the strength and wisdom to know when to speak and when to stay silent; when to engage, and when to walk away. Thank You that You provide the self-control that we need to keep from destroying the boundaries and barriers that are necessary to keep us safe. Forgive us for not depending on You for strength and for not exercising self-control. Teach us to trust You more, so that we would be wise and people that show self-control through Your strength, not our own. Lead us to love others in a way that helps them to see Your kindness and grace. May many choose to enter into a relationship as they seek Your face. Be glorified O God, as we seek to operate in the self-control that You grant us, and give You thanks for the freedom to do so. Amen.
© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present.
May God Almighty grant you mercy. – Genesis 43:14
Revelations In Writing 