Everything was planned. The hotel was booked. Our bags were packed.
All my daughter and I had to do was hop in the car and drive the 212 miles to our destination. In exactly three and one half hours, we would experience a fun-filled day at our favorite theme park.
When we arrived, everything was perfect—at least until high winds blew everything around. Debris was everywhere, on the ground and in the air. The wind blew so hard it felt as if tiny needles pricked our skin. Because of the inclement weather, the park shut down some of the rides. We rode a total of three before they chose to close the park altogether.
What happened to my perfectly planned day?
At first, I wasn’t sure I could keep it together. After a hectic week, my patience was paper thin. I hoped our trip would be an escape from all the craziness.
As I thought about our situation, I realized I was at a crossroads: I could lose control and go down an angry road, or I could ask God to fill me with the patience to handle our situation gracefully.
Letting my temper get the best of me would lead to misery—and that wouldn’t change our circumstances or make our trip better, only worse. If I asked God to give me a patient heart, we could salvage our trip, and my daughter and I could still enjoy our time together. The wiser choice was to seek God’s help.
Solomon reminds us it isn't wise to allow our tempers to dictate our reactions to things. When our plans get ruined, it is frustrating, but with God’s help, we can have a better attitude.
The next time your temper threatens to lead you in the wrong direction, pause and ask God for directions. He will always guide you to a better route.
(Photo courtesy of pixabay.)
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Kelly Basham is passionate about pointing others to the nourishing truth and wisdom found in God’s Word. Kelly lives just outside of Nashville, Tennessee, with her husband Brandon and their two college-age children. When she isn’t writing, you’ll probably find her working on a new arts and crafts project, hunting for vintage accessories, or planning her family’s next visit to the mountains. Read more from Kelly on her blog, Blossom in Faith. You can also connect with her on Facebook and Twitter.