I used to have a tremendous temper. But God knew His child could never be of service to the world unless He was wholly sanctified. (Smith Wigglesworth)
This question of temper can be the acid test of our spirituality. There is victory over temper, moods, temperament, and every alien thing that would rob us of God’s best in our lives. The secret lies in allowing Jesus to reign in our hearts. For Wigglesworth, that meant days of earnest, determined seeking of God’s face. It was then that God dealt with the “Wigglesworth nature” and worked in him the “Jesus nature”.
The Spirit of God can change our nature. His Word is creative, and as you believe, the creative power will change your whole nature. You cannot reach this attitude except by faith. No man can keep himself. No man can change himself, for self is too strong. The God of Almightiness spreads His covering over you, saying, “I am able to do all things.”
“All things are possible to Him who believes” (Mark 9:23).
I am a wise person, so I truly want to turn away from anger; a fool gives full vent to anger but I am a wise person and I want to keep myself under control (Proverbs 29:8, 11). Through Jesus Christ living in me, and by His power, I will aim to be quick to hear, slow to speak, and even slower to anger (James 1:19).
O Lord, I desire not to grieve Your Holy Spirit with whom I am sealed for the day of redemption. By the great power of Your Spirit, please guide me to get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, brawling, slander, and all kinds of malice. (Ephesians 4:30-31).
Please keep my spirit from rushing to be angry, for anger abides in the heart of fools (Ecclesiastes 7:9). Help me to cease from anger and forsake wrath; to not fret at all, since it only causes harm (Psalms 37:9). But when I am angry for a good cause, please help me not sin, but to reflect and be still in my heart, so Your Spirit can let me know what is really needed at that moment (Psalm 4:4).
Father God, please change me not to use foul or abusive language. For Your sake I want everything I say to be good and helpful, so my words will be an encouragement to those who hear them (Ephesians 4:29). Do what You have said, Dearest Lord, and let Your Holy Spirit teach me what needs to be said even as I stand there (Luke 12:12). Please take control of my mouth, O Lord, and keep my lips for You (Psalm 141:3).
Teach me, Lord, to practice patience, for patience is better than power, and controlling one’s temper is more productive than controlling a whole army (Proverbs 16:32). Please teach me to be patient with everyone (1 Thessalonians 5:14).
By Your Spirit teach me to practice hospitality and to be kind to others without grumbling or complaining (1 Peter 4:9). Teach me to not always speak in regard to need, but help me learn to be content (Philippians 4:11). For Godliness with contentment is great gain (1 Timothy 6:6).
O Lord Jesus, You know how upset we become when we perceive harm done to us. You forgave those who harmed You. Please help us to forgive, so we will not be destroyed by anger, or hatred, or revenge. Instead, lead us to grow ever stronger in Your love, full of compassion and courage and hope. Give us grace to move ahead, walking always with You, at Your side.
Lord God, my Heavenly Father, I beg You, please build in me the nature of being merciful in action, kindly in heart, and humble in mind. And above all, lead me to be truly loving.
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