Sunday 20^th July, 2025

Bible Reading: Proverbs 25:28

Memory Verse:  If you live without restraint and are unable to control your temper, you’re as helpless as a city with broken-down defenses, open to attack. Proverbs 25:28 (TPT)

How do I control my responses as a Christian? Controlling your reactions as a Christian involves a combination of spiritual practices and practical techniques. Yesterday, we talked about the spiritual side to managing your emotions. Today, we shall talk about some practical techniques to managing your responses.

2. Practical techniques for managing your emotions include:

A. Awareness and Identification: Become aware of your triggers and the physical signs of rising emotions (e.g., increased heart rate, tension). Identify the specific emotions you’re experiencing (e.g., anger, frustration, fear).

B. Pausing and Breathing: When you feel your emotions escalating, take a pause. Practice deep breathing exercises to calm your nerves. Count to ten before responding.

C. Thought Management: Challenge negative or distorted thoughts that contribute to emotional reactions. Replace them with positive, truthful thoughts based on God’s Word. Bring every thought under the captivity of the Word of God (2 Corinthians 10:5).   

D. Communication Skills: Practice assertive communication, expressing your needs and feelings respectfully. Learn to listen actively and empathetically to others.

E. Seeking Support: Talk to a trusted Christian friend, family member, pastor, or counsellor about your struggles. Accountability and support can provide valuable guidance.

F. Self-Care: Prioritise self-care activities that promote emotional well-being, such as rest, exercise, and healthy eating. If possible, remove yourself from stressful situations.

G. Responding vs. Reacting: Try to remember that a reaction is normally done without thought, and a response is a thought out action. Try to always respond, and not react.

Quote: You don’t always control your circumstances, but you can always control your response.

Prophetic Decree:  Henceforth, you shall rule over every situation, in Jesus name.

Prayer Focus

1. I receive grace to understand my triggers, in Jesus name. 

2. I receive grace to challenge every negative thought and bring them under the dominion of Jesus. 

3. I receive wisdom to understand other’s perspective, in Jesus name. 

4. Spirit of self-control, possess me by fire, in Jesus name. 

5. Holy Spirit, please help me to always respond to situations in love, in Jesus name 

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Hosea 1-7