OVERCOMING TEMPER TANTRUMS THROUGH SPIRITUAL SELF-CONTROL By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: "A fool gives full vent to his spirit, but a wise man quietly holds it back." – Proverbs 29:11 (ESV)
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INTRODUCTION
In today’s world, where chaos and uncertainty abound, many are struggling with controlling their emotions. Anger, frustration, and rage have become common responses to adversity, often leading to destructive outcomes. However, as followers of Christ, we are called to a higher standard—one of self-control and reliance on the power of the Holy Spirit. This teaching explores the dangers of uncontrolled temper tantrums, the spiritual implications of yielding to anger, and the biblical principles of maintaining self-control.
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THE DANGERS OF UNCONTROLLED ANGER
"Refrain from anger, and forsake wrath! Fret not yourself; it tends only to evil." – Psalm 37:8 (ESV)
Uncontrolled anger can lead to destructive behaviors, harming relationships and damaging one’s spiritual walk. The devil seeks to trap believers into venting their frustrations in a way that dishonors God. Those who fail to manage their tempers often fall into despair, regret, and even violence. Many crimes and acts of aggression are committed under the influence of unchecked rage.
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THE ROLE OF DEMONIC INFLUENCE IN ANGER
"Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil." – Ephesians 4:26-27 (ESV)
The enemy manipulates emotions, using anger as a tool to incite strife, rebellion, and destruction. When believers allow their temper to control them, they open doors for demonic influence. The devil’s agenda is to "steal, kill, and destroy" (John 10:10), and uncontrolled rage aligns with his destructive plans.
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JESUS AS OUR EXAMPLE OF SELF-CONTROL
"When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly." – 1 Peter 2:23 (ESV)
Jesus, despite facing intense opposition, never allowed His emotions to lead Him into sin. His life was a model of patience, humility, and trust in the Father. As His followers, we must strive to exhibit the same level of self-control.
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THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IN CONTROLLING ANGER
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law." – Galatians 5:22-23 (ESV)
The ability to control one’s temper is not merely a human effort but a manifestation of the Holy Spirit’s work. Through daily communion with God and submission to the Spirit, believers receive the grace to remain calm even in the face of provocation.
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THE IMPORTANCE OF HUMILITY AND PRAYER
"Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you." – 1 Peter 5:6-7 (ESV)
Prayer and humility before God enable believers to surrender their frustrations rather than act out in anger. Instead of reacting emotionally to challenges, turning to God in prayer provides strength and wisdom.
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SUMMARY
Uncontrolled anger is a trap set by the enemy to derail believers. It leads to spiritual bondage, broken relationships, and even legal or physical consequences. The Bible provides numerous warnings against yielding to rage and calls believers to exercise self-control.
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CONCLUSION
As followers of Christ, we must reject the temptation to react in anger and instead embrace the discipline of self-control through the Holy Spirit. By imitating Jesus, resisting demonic influences, and seeking God's wisdom in prayer, we can overcome anger and maintain our testimony as believers.
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CALL TO ACTION
If you have been struggling with controlling your temper, seek the Lord today. Repent for past failures, ask the Holy Spirit for strength, and commit to responding to situations with patience and wisdom. Replace anger with prayer, and let the peace of God reign in your heart.
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FINAL WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT
You are not alone in this battle. God has provided His Word, His Spirit, and His grace to help you walk in victory. Whenever you feel tempted to lose control, remember that the Holy Spirit is within you, equipping you with the power to remain calm and steadfast. Stand firm in the Lord, and He will strengthen you!
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SALVATION PRAYER
If you have not yet surrendered your life to Jesus, today is the day of salvation. Pray this prayer sincerely:
Lord Jesus, I acknowledge that I am a sinner and that I need Your grace. I repent of my sins and ask You to forgive me. I believe that You died for my sins and rose again for my salvation. Today, I surrender my life to You and ask You to be my Lord and Savior. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and help me to live a life that pleases You. In Jesus' name, Amen.
If you have prayed this prayer, welcome to the family of God! Seek fellowship with other believers, read the Word daily, and grow in faith.
