Monday, June 26, 2023

serendipitous thoughts about "Anger" by Sugar Bear Ephesians 4:26


 My serendipitous thoughts today revolve around introspection and a profound realization that we cannot let our spiritual world slip away due to anger. 

 

This sentiment is beautifully echoed in James 1:19-20, which states, "Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God." These words serve as a powerful reminder that unchecked anger hinders our spiritual growth and prevents us from embodying the righteousness that God desires for us. Instead, we are called to be patient listeners and thoughtful communicators, guarding our hearts against the destructive force of anger.

 

Have you ever experienced a situation where someone asks, "We missed you at the...?" and instead of responding, you silently think, "Won't get fooled again." Is the devil masking their true intentions?

This statement brings to mind Psalm 4:4, which advises us to "Tremble and do not sin." This particular psalm is often referred to as "A Night Prayer" or "An Evening Prayer of Trust in God." It makes me wonder if the person asking the question has hidden motives, masking their true intentions.

 

Reflecting further, Ephesians 4:26–27 resonates, saying, "Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil" (ESV). This verse reminds us that anger itself is not inherently sinful, but it is how we wield it that determines its nature. Righteous anger, directed towards sin or injustice, can be productive. Jesus Himself demonstrated righteous anger when He cleansed 

the temple, revealing His deep displeasure with the corruption that had infiltrated His Father's house (John 2:13–16). However, when anger arises from our own sinful nature, it becomes dangerous and destructive, harming both others and ourselves.

 

Within the same chapter of Ephesians that instructs us not to let the sun go down on our anger, we are also commanded to put away anger (Ephesians 4:31). When we find ourselves angry, it is crucial to address the root cause promptly and deal with it. We should strive to "keep short accounts" and forgive those who need forgiveness in a timely manner—before the day ends. Holding on to anger puts us at risk of bitterness and resentment, which provide the devil with an opportunity to gain a foothold in our lives.

 

As a joker, a lover of Christ, and a sinner, I play my music with a Sugar Bear smile. The mindset of Christ warns me against the improper use of anger, urging me to let go and forgive. In the closing exhortation of Ephesians 4, we are reminded, "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you" (Ephesians 4:32). These words serve as a powerful reminder that forgiveness is essential in maintaining our spiritual well-being and nurturing our relationship with God.

 

So, as I delve into the depths of introspection, let us recognize the importance of guarding our spiritual world against the corrosive influence of anger. I understand that anger, when unchecked and unaddressed, can poison our 

hearts and distance us from the path of righteousness. It is vital for us  to embrace the teachings of Christ, releasing any lingering anger and extending forgiveness to others. By doing so, we can preserve the purity of our spiritual journey and live in harmony with God's will.

 

In conclusion, I find solace in the realization that my serendipitous thoughts today have led me to this profound understanding. I am committed to not letting anger erode my spiritual foundation. Instead, I will strive to cultivate kindness, compassion, and forgiveness in my interactions with others, following the example set by Christ's unwavering love and forgiveness. With a Sugar Bear smile, I embrace this path of spiritual growth, cherishing the gift of grace that God has bestowed upon me. 

 

let us all take a moment of introspection and recognize the destructive power of anger on our spiritual well-being. May we choose a different path—one of kindness, compassion, and forgiveness—emulating the unwavering love and forgiveness of Christ. Together, let us embark on a journey of spiritual growth, cherishing the gift of grace and inspiring others through our actions and words.

 

God Bless You and This Ministry !

Serendipitous thoughts about my Great Grand Mother Mary and Faith



 Dear Friends, and Children of God.

As I sit here at the "State Gym" after a workout, my mind wanders through the serendipitous thoughts about my Great Grand Mother Mary her life story and encounters she told me even while being blind that have shaped my understanding of the process of becoming great.
Despite being blind, she possessed a profound wisdom that continues to influence my spiritual journey to this day.
Mary's life story was one of resilience, faith, and unwavering trust in God. Despite her physical limitations, she embraced life with joy and dedication to discipline.
In the realm of sports, I'm reminded of the importance of blocking and tackling, of executing sound defense, and managing the clock effectively. But beyond the field, these concepts hold valuable lessons that extend to our everyday lives.
In 1 Peter 3, we find a plan for harmonious living and effective communication. Verses 8-12 encourage us to be unified in our actions, showing love, compassion, and humility towards one another. These qualities form the foundation of strong relationships and enable us to overcome obstacles together.
Expanding our understanding, Ephesians provides us with powerful insights. In Ephesians 1:1-7, we are reminded of the great spiritual blessings we have received through Christ. This knowledge gives us the confidence and assurance to face any challenge that comes our way. Additionally, Ephesians 1:22-33 highlights the significance of the church as the body of Christ, emphasizing the unity and purpose we find within it.
In our journey towards greatness, we must be prepared to answer the questions and doubts that arise. 1 Peter 3:15-16 calls us to be ready to give a reason for the hope that is within us. By sharing our faith with gentleness and respect, we have the opportunity to positively impact those around us, leading them towards a deeper understanding of God's love and grace.
One aspect of life that often presents challenges is anger. However, Ephesians 4:26 reminds us that we can be angry without sinning. It is crucial to manage our emotions and respond in a way that does not cause harm or damage relationships. In fact, Ephesians 4:29 encourages us to use our words for good, to build up and encourage others rather than tearing them down.
As followers of Christ, we are called to do good and endure suffering for God's sake. 1 Peter 2:14 and 1 Peter 2:20 remind us of the importance of enduring hardships and remaining faithful in the face of adversity. We can find solace in the knowledge that the eyes of the Lord are always upon the righteous, and His ears are open to their prayers. Our hope is secure in His unfailing love and grace, as Luke 1:13 reassures us.
My goal in sharing these truths is not simply to provide information but to convince others of the transformative power found in faith. Romans 12:24 speaks to the depth of this transformation, as we have been captured by something so profound that we are willing to be considered fools for its sake. This "something" is the love and grace of God, which compels us to love and serve others selflessly.
In our pursuit of greatness, we must be wary of the cycle of foolishness. Proverbs 26:4-5 advises us to approach arguments wisely, recognizing when to engage and when to disengage. The ultimate goal is not to win arguments but to win hearts, to build relationships grounded in love, respect, and understanding.
As we reflect on these thoughts, let us remember that the process of becoming great goes beyond personal achievement. It is about striving to make a positive impact on the lives of those around us. By embodying the qualities of effective communication, grace, endurance, and humility, we can inspire others to join us on this transformative journey.
So, let us be intentional in our pursuit of greatness, both on and off the field. Let us embrace the lessons learned from blocking and tackling, sound defense, and clock management. But above all, let us anchor ourselves in the wisdom and guidance found in the Scriptures that (was taught to me by my Great Grand ma Mary ) allowing them to shape our life and strive to engage with God wholeheartedly, pursuing excellence in every aspect of our lives.
With heartfelt regards, Sugar Bear.

God Bless You and This Ministry!