A Calamitous Cut
Theme of the Week: Why Do We Lose It?
Cliff Denay Jr.
Tuesday, August 8, 2006
 1 of 1
Key Bible Verse: Those who are short-tempered do foolish things. … Those who control their anger have great understanding (Proverbs 14:17,29). Bonus Reading: 1 Samuel 20:24-34
Trimming the closet door would put the project to bed. I had spent the day installing new carpeting in our circa 1877 house. I was hot, tired, and dirty. But the closet floor at the foot of the stairs never looked so good. Now, the door, I thought.
The original six-panel solid pine door needed trimming to close without brushing the new carpet. No problem. I eyeballed the necessary cut, unpinned the old hinges, and carried the monster through the house to the garage. One careful cut later, I retraced my steps, sweat stinging my eyes. My hammer coaxed the old pins back into their sockets. I pulled hopefully on the handle. The door wouldn't budge.
My steps quickened on the second trip outside. Another cautious cut later and the reinstalled door still clung to the carpet. For an angry moment, I thought of Solomon's words, " … joy may end in grief" (Proverbs 14:13, NIV). I tried to reassure myself. Calm down, Cliff.
But, the third unmeasured cut was the cruelest. The yawning gap between the door and the carpet stared accusingly at me through the July heat and dust. I glared back. The century-old door was ruined. I screamed. [continued 8/9]
—Cliff Denay Jr. in Michigan
My Response: I can identify with Cliff's frustration with himself because …
Thought to Apply: People who fly into a rage always make a bad landing.—WILL ROGERS (actor & humorist)
Copyright © 2006 by the author or Christianity Today International/Men of Integrity magazine.Click here for reprint information on Men of Integrity. 1 of 1
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Lord, when my anger is out of control, Your Spirit isn't in charge. I ask for Your help in governing my temper.
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