#soap # Ecclesiastes 10 ## Title: When Emotion Steps In… ## Scripture: (Ecclesiastes 10:4) “If the anger of the ruler flares up against you, do not resign from your position, for a calm response can undo great offenses.” (NET) ## Observation: When emotion steps in, common sense and compromise usually step out. I have watched so many people get upset to the point they are no longer upset about the issue. They become upset about being upset. It continues to compound until lines are crossed, things are said, and relationships are severed. We have all likely been guilty of this over time. Once our adrenaline begins to flow and our fight/flight reflexes begin to express themselves, we can lose it. This is why God’s Word warns us to remain calm, cool, and collected. In debating, they say the person who loses their cool first loses the debate. It can be very hard to do, but it is vital. One of the things I do that helps is to take a step back and take a deep breath. You cannot always do this for more than a couple seconds when the pressure is on, but anything is better than nothing. You are literally breathing oxygen back into your brain to help you think better. It also gives you a second to ask the Lord for wisdom. It helps. ## Application: When you get frustrated today, before saying anything, take a deep breath and pray a silent prayer. ## Prayer: Thank You, Jesus, for being with us when we need You the most.