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My Rat Terrior, Tiny Terror of the Neighborhood
by Nancy Quinn My rat terrier was the tiny terror of the neighborhood when I was growing up. The only person Mitsy would listen to was my father. The rest of us entertained the neighborhood trying to get her into the house when she was frolicking. Mitsy would take up a sentry post on the front porch and if someone walked by, she'd look up into the front door window. We learned to duck. If she saw us watching, she'd feel obligated to run to the end of the driveway and bark at people until they left her kingdom. And when she was in the backyard, she'd create a well-worn path running up and down along the fence barking and snapping a warning for others to stay off her territory. Mitsy reminds me of some people; quick to voice an opinion, and as equally quick in their anger. Sometimes it's hard to remember to be quick to listen and slow to anger. But as Christians, we need to remember we are constantly watched by non-Christians and need to maintain our testimony. I pray every morning for the Lord to help me watch my words and actions so I can be a good witness to the Lord and I ask Him to cover my mouth, my heart and my mind with His hand to keep me from sinning against Him with my words. Speaking in anger does not achieve the righteousness of Christ. Lord, I ask for wisdom and discernment in the choices I make today. Please give me a calm spirit and help me to maintain my testimony for You in my words and actions, and help me to continue to develop a spirit of self-control. In Jesus Name, Amen. Further Bible Study: Psalm 37:8 "Stop being angry! Turn from your rage! Do not lose your temperit only leads to harm." Proverbs 12:16 "A fool is quick-tempered, but a wise person stays calm when insulted." Proverbs 14:29 "People with understanding control their anger; a hot temper shows great foolishness." Proverbs 19:11 "Sensible people control their temper; they earn respect by overlooking wrongs." Proverbs 15:18 "A hot-tempered man stirs up dissension, but a patient man calms a quarrel." Proverbs 17:27 "A man of knowledge uses words with restraint, and a man of understanding is even-tempered." May God bless these words as I strive to encourage others in their walk with Christ. Please contact me if you would like to request a specific lesson that Lucy Mouse can teach your children or if you would like a coloring page to be sent to match the story! Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com |