MAY 5 – Peace and Purpose in Relationships
3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 15:18-19; 1 Corinthians 7
________________________________________
“A hot-tempered man stirs up strife, but he who is slow to anger quiets contention. The way of a sluggard is like a hedge of thorns, but the path of the upright is a level highway.” —Proverbs 15:18-19
“To the unmarried and the widows I say that it is good for them to remain single, as I am. But if they cannot exercise self-control, they should marry. For it is better to marry than to burn with passion.” —1 Corinthians 7:8-9 (ESV)
________________________________________
Have you ever been in a situation where someone’s anger made everything more complicated? Maybe it was a heated argument with a friend or a family member, or even a time when you reacted in anger, and things escalated quickly. Proverbs 15:18 reminds us that a hot-tempered person stirs up strife, while someone who is slow to anger helps to bring peace. It’s easy to let our emotions take over, but taking a step back and choosing calmness can be a game-changer in any relationship.
In 1 Corinthians 7, Paul talks about relationships, specifically marriage. He says that being single has its own advantages, as it allows for more focus on serving God without distractions. However, he also acknowledges that not everyone is called to singleness, and for those who struggle with self-control, marriage is a good option. Paul encourages us to make choices based on what will allow us to live in a way that honors God.
________________________________________
THINK ABOUT IT
1. Anger and Strife: Proverbs warns that hot-tempered people stir up trouble, but a calm person brings peace. Think about how your reactions affect the relationships around you. How do you handle frustration or conflict? What would happen if you chose to respond with calmness instead of anger in those situations?
2. The Gift of Singleness and Marriage: Paul talks about the advantages of being single and serving God fully, but also acknowledges the reality of desire and passion. How does this balance of perspectives affect the way you view relationships and your own choices in relationships right now?
3. Choosing Peace and Purpose: Both Proverbs and Paul speak to the idea of living with purpose—whether in how we manage our emotions or how we approach our relationships. How can you live with more intentionality in your relationships with others, choosing peace and wisdom in your interactions?
________________________________________
BOTTOM LINE
Living in peace starts with controlling our anger and making choices that honor God, bringing His peace, joy, and purpose into every part of our lives.
________________________________________
PRAYER
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for Your guidance in relationships and in how to handle conflict. Help me to be slow to anger and quick to bring peace into my relationships. Give me wisdom in my choices, whether I am single or in a relationship, and help me to honor You in all I do. Help me to live with purpose and peace, reflecting Your love to those around me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.