Most of us have occasional fit-to-be-tied moments. We become:

• Angry
• Upset
• Excited

We fly off the handle.

When fit to be tied, we get out of control.

Our emotions grow so great, we need someone to calm us down. No one actually ties us. However, they do try to:

• Prevent anything we will regret
• Keep us from hurting ourselves or someone else

We may grow fit to be tied for selfish reasons. 

• When we don’t get our way
• If our plans don’t work

We may also grow fit to be tied for unselfish reasons.

• When someone abuses a child or older adult
• If someone lies, steals, or hurts people in any other way

Little things often make us fit to be tied.

Some of us deal well with life’s big problems. Yet, we blow off steam when faced with small ones such as:

• Slow traffic
• Food spills on a clean floor
• Noisy neighbors

God gave us emotions.

However, we want to use those emotions for good, not harm. How do we do that?

• Recognize what upsets us.
• Remember we can’t control everything.
• Change what we can.
• Ask for help when we need it.
• Focus on what matters most.
• Ask God to guide us and work through us.
• Choose to love everyone, including those who make us fit to be tied.

“Don’t let your spirit rush to be angry, for anger abides in the heart of fools” (Ecclesiastes 7:9 HCSB).

Thanks to Pat Stapp for the suggestion.

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