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Life Over Coffee Devotions
For each will have to bear his own load (Galatians 6:5).
When things don’t go your way, how do you react? Complaining, whining, or grumbling might seem harmless, but they are subtle forms of anger. James 4:1-3 offers insight into this matter, asking, “What causes quarrels and fights among you?” The answer lies within you. James explains that sinful anger comes from unmet passions, desires, and coveting—internal and warring heart idols that reveal what you value most.
Instead of looking outward for someone to blame, ask yourself what your anger reveals about you. Sinful anger often surfaces when you don’t get what you want. Have you considered that not getting all you want might be the very thing God is using to shape you into the person He wants you to be?
Even Jesus faced an “I’m not getting what I want” moment in the Garden of Gethsemane. As He prepared for the cross, He prayed, “Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done” (Luke 22:42). I’m not suggesting that Jesus made a mistake here or any mistakes at all. However, Jesus didn’t want to endure the pain of the cross, but He submitted His desires to His Father’s will.
His example is your best option when you’re struggling with anger or disappointment. You may not always get what you want, but you can choose to submit your life to God. When you do, your anger and angst will subside, and you’ll gain clarity on how to respond to life’s challenges.
Owning your mistakes and submitting to God’s will are not easy steps, but they are necessary for growth. Blaming others keeps you stuck in an endless rut, while taking responsibility moves you forward. Instead of asking, “Who’s at fault?” ask, “What does this problem reveal about me?” and “How can I grow from this?” God will use sin sinlessly. Meaning that the sinful things that happen, whether your fault or others, can have redemptive and restorative purposes.
Let’s live boldly, owning our mistakes and trusting God to work out all things for His glory and our good.
Rick launched the Life Over Coffee global training network in 2008 to bring hope and help for you and others by creating resources that spark conversations for transformation. His primary responsibilities are resource creation and leadership development, which he does through speaking, writing, podcasting, and educating.
In 1990 he earned a BA in Theology and, in 1991, a BS in Education. In 1993, he received his ordination into Christian ministry, and in 2000 he graduated with an MA in Counseling from The Master’s University. In 2006 he was recognized as a Fellow of the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC).