Oh man, oh man did some folks really try to get the worst out of me today. Situations like today are a rare occurrence these days. I believe the Holy Spirit has guided and navigated my life with poise to get me through the tough situations I've encountered. But today I I wanted to break, so I found myself somewhere between having a Dave Buznik(from Anger Management) and Walter Sobchak (from Big Lebowski) moment. The Bible recognizes that injustices and mistreatment can naturally cause anger. But it's what we do with that anger, that matters. That we should not let our anger lead to sin. Ephesians 4:26-27 [26] And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, [27] for anger gives a foothold to the devil. That we should not seek revenge. Romans 12:19 [19] Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say, “I will take revenge; I will pay them back,” says the Lord. Not to react so quickly. James 1:19 [19] Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. Not to let our anger lead to bitterness. Ephesians 4:31 [31] Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Forgiveness doesn't mean saying the wrong was okay. Luke 6:37 NLT [37] Forgive others, and you will be forgiven. And choose to respond with good rather repay with evil. Romans 12:21 [21] Don’t let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good. The Bible does not say all of this for us to be passive when we're wronged. It means that when someone sins against us we don't allow it make us sin too. When we feel anger, we should take it to God first. We respond appropriately and responsibly. Let go, forgive, and move on. Easier said than done. But we must trust God. Thank you Jesus for getting me through this situation. Thank you for calming the storm that isn't apart of my everyday life anymore. Amen.

Spiritual maturity comes from not only knowing Jesus Christ but from the growth of our spiritual strength and faith in Him. Through the many trials and tribulations we have endured and overcome with unwavering faith through it all. Coming out of those times celebrating Jesus the same way we did as we went into them. There are times when we'll miss when we were children, especially when difficult situations presents itself. Because it's easy. But it takes a different level of maturity for us to handle more serious and malicious situations, as we bear a greater responsibility and are held to a higher level of accountability. Whatever the situation. Jesus can handle it. Have courage, He will see us through it.

In our small group at The Forge this morning Ken Contreras encouraged me with a great idea. We were discussing if our family has core values, and if we plan to write some down. Here is my family core value/mission statement that I am telling my boys: "Faggard men are solutions" What are some core values or a family mission statement you have or are working on?

Gents sorry for the late notice, I have to be in Canton by 8am so I will not be there in the morning.

Thank you for having me today gents. I just wanted to share that I 100% felt the holy Spirit in that room today more than I can say anywhere else I've been (as of late). Not that the spirit isnt there otherwise, but it was definitely there today. Thank you, God bless, and Goodnight