Latest Devotion
Making Better Choices
By: John Carrigan
Friday, July 31, 2026
For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. Matthew 23:12
Years ago, I thought my wife really knew how to push my buttons. It seemed like she could say certain things or speak in a way that triggered me. But it was me! Some of you understand what I'm talking about, but thank God we’re not like that anymore. Now, I know that how I respond to things is a choice I must make. Now, because God is leading me, I am able to control my anger and make better choices.
But at times, we'll still argue with others or get frustrated in difficult situations. When I was frustrated in the past, the "old me" would want to blame someone. Now, I know I must start by looking inward. James 4 says our greatest conflicts aren't usually caused by something happening to us, they happen because of something happening in us. Our hearts are the battlegrounds for our desires, and if those desires are left unchecked, they will eventually lead us to destruction.
When we want things and can’t get them, our flesh tells us to argue, fight, and manipulate. Our natural self (our selfish nature) wants to follow worldly wisdom, but that type of wisdom is unspiritual. Worldly wisdom and advice will only lead to disorder, which is the opposite of God's peace.
The solution is simple, yet profound. We'll never have peace until we put God first. When God changes our hearts, it changes us from “me” centered to Christ centered. We'll be less focused on ourselves and more focused on the needs of others. Putting God first aligns us with His will, and it allows Him to realign our motives.
The pathway to peace begins with humility, and staying humble is the cure for worldly thinking. Seeking humility means surrendering our will to God, resisting the devil's influence, and drawing near to the Lord. It requires us to mourn our sin, "wash our hands" through repentance, and to stop being double-minded—torn between God and the world. When we humble ourselves, God gives us more of His grace. He'll send His Holy Spirit to check our hearts before evil desires wreck our lives. In His presence, we'll find the strength to overcome the enemy's attacks.
Before I met Jesus, I allowed others to push my buttons. But their actions didn't just affect me, sometimes they were controlling me! Now, I'm empowered by the Holy Spirit to make better choices. Now, I'm pleased to say that God is working in me and through me... for my good and His glory!