Slow to become angry

People will speak of your mighty deeds,
and I will proclaim your greatness.
They will tell about all your goodness and sing about your kindness.
The LORD is loving and merciful,
slow to become angry and full of constant love.   (verses 6-8)

Read Psalm 145: 1-8

I know plenty of people who are quick to get angry. I am careful around them, not wanting to upset them and earn myself a scolding. Sometimes I feel that my very presence insults them. Then there are my precious friends with long fuses, who take a lot before they get mad. They are wonderfully relaxing company, because I am free to be myself without worrying about accidentally offending them. When they do get angry, I take it seriously, because they have usually been genuinely hurt.

God is slow to get angry. You and I can freely be ourselves and know that it takes a lot to bug our Creator. God is not angry at you for being you.

Loving Creator, thank you that you are patient with my mistakes and slow to get angry with me. Help me to love being myself as much as you love me. Amen.

by Clare Schulz, in ‘Assurances for each Day’ (LCA, Openbook, 2004)

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