It is so much easier to name ways that others irritate us than to accept that there are ways we irritate others. It may even be harder for us to admit that the real source of our irritability comes from deep inside us. God is clear that we cannot live as loving people and be irritable or easily angered.
Love does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. (1 Corinthians 13:5 NLT)
Many factors can cause or contribute to irritability, including stress, disappointment, hormonal changes, lack of sleep, and low blood sugar. When things are not going our way and we feel others are blocking us from accomplishing what needs doing, we easily complain and become irritable. Depression may be an off shoot of irritability. We don't like how we are feeling, and the behaviour or personality of another person may begin to irritate us. It is not that the person is doing anything wrong, it's simply our inner pain working out in us.
God cautions us to deal with whatever the underlying root of our irritation is, so we can avoid creating more painful issues to deal with.
If we ask Him, God will show us the truth about what is going on, give us comfort and healing for the pain we are experiencing, and show us a way forward. He will also provide everything we need to complete the tasks He assigns us. Will we choose to live in the care and guidance of God or remain as irritable people?
Prayer: Heavenly Father, Often I feel irritated and stretched by what is going on around me and inside me. Help me to look to You for help when my short fuse is about to blow and allow Your comfort and peace to work in me, so that together we may resolve the underlying problems related to my irritability. Amen
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