Love God Greatly-Fear & AnxietySample

READ: Proverbs 15:4, Ephesians 4:25-32, Matthew 15:11

SOAP: Proverbs 15:4  

We have all heard the phrase, “if you cannot say something nice, do not say anything at all.” Perhaps, Scripture proves Mom right. When our emotions are on guard, we often forget to safeguard our speech. We take our anxiety out on innocent parties. 

Ephesians warns us about the effect emotions play on words and actions. Paul tells us to be angry, but do not sin (Ephesians 4:26). This quote of Psalm 4:4 is a reminder for us to keep our emotions within ourselves rather than to allow them to control our deeds. Our words are to be a mechanism to build up, rather than tear down. Jesus reminds His followers of the importance of their words as well. 

Taking time to allow the Spirit to speak to us and through us before responding, especially when we feel overwhelmed helps us answer with gentleness. By doing this, we will utter words of grace rather than disfavor.

How have emotions driven your response to others in the past? What is a way you can stop fear from ruling your words in the future? God desires for us to be vessels of His love and mercy. Our mouths are a primary avenue for us to deliver His message to the world.

Father God, thank You for Your grace. Help my words speak Your grace to the world around me every day. I pray that You will help me keep my emotions in check, so I might accurately reflect You in my life. Forgive me for the times when I have allowed fear to dominate my speech. In Jesus’ name, Amen.