Would you say that you need the power of God to endure whatever comes with a good temper? I certainly do. Well God has given us all that is necessary to fulfill His will in life. And the element He's given us to maintain a good temper in all things is forgiveness which comes out of a heart of love.
Forgiveness covers our heart and other extremities. Why is it so important?
Unforgiveness does not hurt the other person; it hurts you. Also, God said that He will not forgive you unless you forgive others. And forgiveness helps to maintain a good temper at all times.
Have you ever needed God to forgive you since you've been saved? Do you think you may need God to forgive you in the future? Well, if you forgive then you will be forgiven.
See, your decision to walk in love is what will activate God's forgiveness when you need it. It is a decision; not an emotion; not a feeling; but a decision. You decide, "I'm going to do this!" period.
Love is the key that unlocks forgiveness for you. To forgive an individual is to decide that their wrong won't affect the decision you've made to do what the Word says in responding to their actions. You decide that you will not retaliate, but will respond scripturally. And as far as you are concerned, you will maintain a good relationship with that person, because you walk in love. And a love person allows love to rule the relationship.
God requires that you walk in love. That love will cause you to maintain a good temper, because 1 Corinthians 13:4 says that love is patient. Love can endure anything and everything that comes your way. And when you have that kind of supernatural element working in your life, joy and peace is sure to follow.
Scripture References: Matthew 18:23-35; 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 (AMP)
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Keith Butler has been an ordained minister since 1974. He is a graduate of the University of Michigan and holds diplomas from Canada Christian College and Rhema Bible Training Center.
He serves in ministry with the support of his lovely wife, Pastor Deborah L. Butler, and their children: Pastor Andre Butler (granddaughters Alexis, Angela, and April), Pastor MiChelle Ferguson and husband Pastor Lee (grandson Lucas), and Minister Kristina Jenkins and husband Pastor Joel (grandsons Andrew and Austin, and granddaughter Alyssa).
