Pastor Gary's OYB Devotion Archive for December 11

“A man of wrath stirs up strife, and one given to anger causes much transgression” (Proverbs 29:22)

From: December 11, 2013

Those with anger management problems cause trouble and sin everywhere they go. There is an appropriate emotional response of anger. God gets angry. But God’s anger is under His control. However, the “man of wrath” acts out of uncontrolled anger. Anger controls him. Ironically, “control” is often at the heart of the “one given to anger.” This person is continually angry because they want to be in control of every situation. They have no patience for others and their opinions. They want control. And anger and frustration is their constant state. Why? Because they cannot even gain control of themselves.
Are you angry today? Easily frustrated? Is it because you aren’t getting your way? Give your anger to God. Ask Him to give you patience and self-control. Trust Him with control of your life. Give him your relationships. And watch the boiling temp of your heart finally go calm.

“I am counting on the Lord; yes, I am counting on him. I have put my hope in his word” (Psalm 130:5)

From: December 11, 2012

The Psalmist wrote this to be sung while climbing the steps to the temple in Jerusalem. A song of ascent for worshipers of YHWH (Yahweh). Perhaps we should have such songs to sing as we go to church, then we would bring our worship into the house with us. I’m not counting on my credit card, my job, my government, even my preacher… I’m counting on the Lord! I know He will come through for me!

“Seek me and live; do not seek Bethel, do not go to Gilgal, do not journey to Beersheba. For Gilgal will surely go into exile, and Bethel will be reduced to nothing” (Amos 5:4-5)

From: December 11, 2011

God is a person not a place. Seek Him from where you are now. A change of scenery will not change your heart. Stop running away and start running to God. Seek the Lord and live.