"A cup of sweet water, no matter how violently jarred, will never spill bitter water."
(Amy Carmichael - missionary to India)
Last spring I saw this quote approached in a different way. A woman was asked to hold a cup of water and then another woman bumped the first woman's hand and water spilled out. The question was asked, "Why did the water spill out?" The answer, because the cup was jarred. WRONG! The water spilled because that was what was in the cup.
Recently I have been reminded of this at times when I feel stepped on or taken advantage of and I feel first frustration and then anger bubbling to the surface, anger that I do not like. I am reminded that I am not angry because of the other person. I am angry because that is what is inside me that is spilling out.
I am thankful for God's forgiveness in those moments when I feel anger and rage and let is spill out. I am thankful that when I feel ashamed of the ugliness inside of me, He forgives, refreshes, restores, and gives me hope for a better day.
Picture: Microsoft clip art
God's forgiveness is wonderful! Thank you for sharing honestly about anger and rage, that we all deal with at times. His mercies are new every morning, and in some cases every minute...depending upon what kind of day we're having. :) Thanks for sharing, I enjoyed reading!
ReplyDeleteThank you for stopping by "called to be home" and for your encouraging words!
ReplyDeleteI used to experience this strongly too. I was angry at everything. I began to ask myself things like "Is this really a situation that needs me to be angry or is it the anger in me using this situation to come out?" The Buddha tells us that anger is like swallowing poison and expecting the other person to die.
ReplyDeleteThanks for your comments, Tam. "Swallowing poison and expecting the other person to die" is a great word picture. About a year ago, the overwhelming anger I had been feeling dissipated quickly and surprisingly. Still, on occasion it flares up and I am reminded that it is still there and this distresses me. Thankfully this morning I came a step closer to finding the root of it. My desire is to uproot it and toss it away.
ReplyDeleteI love your post, Darlene. God's forgiveness is so abundant and true, and I thank you for reminding me of that with your words. Glad I came over from FMF.
ReplyDeleteLara, I'm also glad that you came over from FMF. Thank you for your encouraging words!
DeleteI read this late last night and have been thinking about it all day. This is true and I am trying to change what comes out of me! Thanks for sharing really good stuff!
ReplyDeleteRamble SAHM W. Thank you for your comment. I wish you great success in your endeavors! I know it's a step by step process and I rejoice at each triumph and I would love to hear about your journey.
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by!