JULY 4 - Strength Under Control3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 19:11; Psalm 76; Luke 4//3-Year Bible Devotional Book (Year Two) Available on Amazon//________________________________________“Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense.” — Proverbs 19:11 (ESV)“But you, you are to be feared! Who can stand before you when once your anger is roused?” — Psalm 76:7 (ESV)“And he began to say to them, ‘Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.’” — Luke 4:21 (ESV)________________________________________Have you ever been so angry that you said or did something you later regretted? It’s like your emotions grab the steering wheel and drive you straight into a mess. Proverbs 19:11 says wisdom shows itself when we stay calm and overlook offenses. That doesn’t mean pretending nothing happened—it means choosing self-control over explosions of anger. Psalm 76 reminds us that God’s power is unmatched; when He acts in anger, it is always holy, purposeful, and just. And in Luke 4, Jesus shows strength under control when He announces His mission to bring freedom and healing, even as some people doubted Him.When we get angry, we often feel like blowing up is the only way to be heard. But real strength shows when we respond with wisdom, prayer, and peace—like Jesus did. The goal isn’t to bottle up our emotions but to bring them under God’s control so we can reflect His character in tough moments.________________________________________THINK ABOUT IT1. Pause Before Reacting: When you feel anger rising, what practical steps can help you pause and think before you speak or act (Proverbs 19:11)?2. Reflect God’s Character: How does remembering God’s power and justice (Psalm 76:7) help you trust Him instead of trying to handle everything on your own?3. Follow Jesus’ Example: Jesus stayed focused on His mission despite opposition (Luke 4:21). How can you keep your cool and stay true to your purpose when people misunderstand or criticize you?________________________________________BOTTOM LINETrue strength isn’t losing control in anger—it’s choosing wisdom, patience, and trust in God when emotions run high.________________________________________PRAYERHeavenly Father, thank You for showing me that real strength comes from self-control and trusting You. Help me respond with wisdom when I feel angry or hurt, and teach me to reflect Your love and peace in every situation. Guide my words, my actions, and my heart so I can honor You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.