Scripture:
My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.
– James 1:19-20 (NIV)
Jesus guides us to control our emotions and be sympathetic to the views and thoughts of others. It is far too easy to let our emotions force a quick response that can be damaging to relationships, rather than slowing down to listen and work to understand others in earnest. Allowing a response to come from anger is giving up control, and as the verse mentions, does not produce righteousness.
Prayer: Lord, please be with me when I am confronted with adversity and frustrations. Please help me to slow down and control my emotions so that I can be an example of Your spirit.
Petition: That people involved in politics would not let emotions dictate their words and actions and that people will seek to find solutions for all.