We all have to deal with delays, inconveniences and people that are hard to get along with. We all encounter people who are rude, inconsiderate or annoying. And sometimes, it's not a stranger; it's somebody who is close to you. But Jesus said in John 14:27, "Stop allowing yourself to be upset and agitated." Notice, it's a choice. He didn't say, "I'll take away everything that will cause stress and frustration." No, He said it'll still be there, but if you have the right approach, it doesn't have to upset you.
One lady told how one of her husband's relatives was very opinionated. He was always making sarcastic, demeaning remarks toward her. This couple was newly married, and every time they went to a family get together, inevitably, the relative would say something that offended her. She would get upset, and it would end up ruining the whole trip. This happened like clockwork again and again. It got to where she dreaded going to these family events. Finally, she said to her husband, "You've got to do something about this man. He's your relative." She expected her husband to say something like, "You're right, Honey. Nobody should talk to you like that. I'm going to go in there and straighten him out." But he did just the opposite. He said, "Honey, I love you, but I can't control this man. He has every right to have his opinion. He can say what he wants to, but you have every right to not let it offend you."
She couldn't understand why her husband wouldn't take control of the situation. At the next family gathering, it happened again. It kept happening. She'd get upset, and every time he'd walk into one room, she'd walk into another. If this man came inside, she'd make sure she went outside. Her whole focus was centered on avoiding this man. Finally one day, it was like a light turned on. She realized she was giving away her joy. She was letting this one person, who had a lot of issues of his own, keep her from enjoying her family and being who she was meant to be.
Now you may have somebody like this in your life. You don't have to go the next 20 years allowing them to upset you. Change your approach. Every time you let them irritate you, all you're doing is empowering them. The next time they do something that would normally get on your nerves, ignore it. Don't give away your joy. When they're rude, keep a smile on your face. If they ignore you or leave you out, don't go call all your friends and talk about it. No, take the high road, keep your joy, keep your peace and don't fuel it anymore. Take back the power. Stop allowing yourself to be agitated, hold your ground, and let God defend and vindicate you. Stay in peace and walk in the path of His blessing!