Walls

I struggle with getting angry at my children. I think that the real root, is my own selfishness and impatience. Last year at the end of the school year, we worked on memorizing several verses about controlling our spirits. One verse talked about how an angry man is like a city without walls. We talked, of course, about how in ancient times walls were a means of protection. That Proverb then says that an angry man who isn't showing self control leaves himself open to attack. Meditating on this verse, I also remembered the Proverb that says that a wise woman builds her house, but the foolish woman tears hers down with her hands. It was like I was seeing my family as a ruined city without walls. It seems as if my anger has the ability to leave my family open to the attacks of the enemy, but I can partner with God in protecting them if I submit to the Holy Spirit so that He can control my spirit and help me to be a wise woman who build up the walls of my house. I desire to be like Nehemiah and be a wall builder who is busy protecting the hearts and faiths of my precious children and husband. Lord, Please keep my tongue from evil. Help me to speak grace and kindness into the lives of my children and husband. Help me to smile at and delight in them. Please replace my sinful anger with Your joy.