We’ve all experienced it, the loss of patience, control and spewing of angry words, harsh tones and then regret. I have had more than my share for sure and will often carry the load of guilt around like a treasured possession, even though I should allow grace to step in and release me if I have asked forgiveness.
“Feeling overwhelmed, trapped, and exhausted, I just wanted to take a nap.”
I could relate to that phrase Sue wrote in the very beginning of the chapter. So many times my loss of “self-control” is due to my lack of taking time, being rested and slowing down. I lose my patience because my expectations of a situation are much higher than the reality. It is something I work on every singe day. I am imagine you feel the same as well.
This chapter gave me a renewed perspective on my anger, how it erupts and what I can do about it. There were a few very significant quotes that really resonated with me:
“The hidden habits of the heart can imprison our mind and emotions.”
What does that mean to you? How does reflecting on that change your perspective?
“Anger begins as a seed in the mind that takes root and grows.”
Oh, how I can take hold of this one and run with it. I have the worst negative self-talk and ability to hold onto thinking that is not only negative but down right destructive to my relationships and my own spirit. I know this does not help in my own tendency to suffer with depression and anxiety. But with prayer and His guidance I can change my thinking and what I hold onto in my mind.
This is reflective in my actions, my responses and my ‘over’ reactions.
In a recent study I did of Lysa Terkeurst’s book, “Unglued” I discovered that I am both a stuffer and an exploder – and I explored the people I tend to use both outlets on. I realized that my feelings and agenda have a lot to do with how I react and respond to different people.
Which brings me to what Sue said:
“Most of the time however, we become angry or frustrated when we do not get what we want. We have a goal that has been blocked or an agenda that has been thwarted.”
I find this spot on. Like I said before, expectations play a big role on what I think of myself, others and how I respond and react. I am so interested to find out how you can replace your angry tone (and mine) words and thinking with the positive that God so desires to pour into us.
I will be posting some questions this week in the Facebook group and look forward to sharing! If you are not in the Facebook group, please feel to comment here and I will respond.
“With the help of God and by the grace of God, you are able to be the best mom in the world for your children.” – Sue Detweiler
