April 23 - Slow to Anger, Strong in Spirit

APRIL 23 - Slow to Anger, Strong in Spirit3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 14:28–29; Psalm 46; Romans 7//3-Year Bible (Year 1) Devotional Book Available on Amazon//________________________________________“Whoever is slow to anger has great understanding, but he who has a hasty temper exalts folly.” —Proverbs 14:29“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way.” —Psalm 46:1–2“For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing.” —Romans 7:19________________________________________Ever feel like you're fighting a battle inside yourself? One moment you're calm, and the next you're snapping at someone. Or maybe you really want to follow God, but you still mess up in ways that frustrate you. You're not alone.In Romans 7, Paul talks about this exact struggle—the desire to do right but feeling pulled in the opposite direction. And in Proverbs 14, we’re reminded that being slow to anger is a sign of real strength.But what happens when you feel weak or overwhelmed? That’s where Psalm 46 steps in, reminding us that God is our strength when everything feels out of control—even when we feel out of control.________________________________________THINK ABOUT IT1. Strong Doesn’t Mean Perfect: Being “slow to anger” doesn’t mean you never feel it—it means you learn to pause, reflect, and invite God into that moment instead of reacting on impulse. What helps you pause when you're mad or overwhelmed?2. Your Safe Place: Psalm 46 paints a picture of God as a refuge—your safe place. Where do you go (or what do you do) when life feels like it’s falling apart? Are you running to God or just running?3. The Inner Battle Is Real: Paul’s honesty in Romans 7 shows us that struggling with sin doesn’t mean you’ve failed—it means you’re aware and still fighting. How can you ask the Holy Spirit to help you choose what’s right, even when it’s hard?________________________________________BOTTOM LINEYou’re not alone in your struggles. God is your strength, even when you feel weak or frustrated. Slow down, breathe, and invite Him into your everyday reactions. Real strength shows up when you let Him lead your heart, especially when emotions rise.________________________________________PRAYERHeavenly Father, thank You for being my strength when I feel like a mess inside. Help me to slow down when I get angry, and to turn to You instead of reacting on my own. Teach me to trust You more in the middle of my struggles, and remind me that Your Spirit is always with me, even when I fall short. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.