You probably think of George Washington as calm, steady and unflappable, even in his most desperate of times. In truth, the first president had a terrible temper and when under stress, according to one of his contemporaries, his face became “dark and lowering” and he was “most tremendous in his wrath.” Thomas Jefferson even once provided a firsthand account of an enraged Washington throwing his hat on the floor and stomping on it.

Gazing at him, all who sat in the council saw that his face was like the face of an angel.

Acts 6:15

Stephen, the first martyr of Christianity, was quite a contrast to that. Falsely accused and facing imminent death, his countenance conveyed an unearthly peace – like the “face of an angel.” Filled with the Holy Spirit, he was willing to accept any consequence for his testimony about Jesus.

There may be moments when a little “righteous indignation” is called for, but much more often, you will do damage when you become “most tremendous” in your wrath. Today, ask God to give you the wisdom and discipline to respond appropriately to whatever, or whoever, is making your life difficult today. And may He grant the same to President Obama and America’s leaders.

Recommended Reading: Proverbs 29:9-14

The National Day of Prayer is quickly approaching. ONLY 3 DAYS AWAY. On May 1st, we will set aside a day for Americans to once again ask for God’s involvement in our country, its leaders and our military.