Have you ever been angry? Has your anger ever been justified? Have you ever jumped to conclusions in your anger before finding out all the facts? Have you said some words or sent an email that you wish you can take back? We all can probably answer yes to one or all of these. You will never be able to control how someone else acts or responds. The only person you can control is yourself.
James tells us when our sin is motivated by pride it becomes unproductive and contrary to God’s will. “Because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.” (James 1:20).
God’s desire is to live in peace with all men and women. “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” (Romans 12:18). He wants us to love one another and not let angry speech proceed out of our mouths.
Next Sunday, we will be singing a song entitled, “Love One Another.” The beginning words go like this; “Angry words! O let them never from my tongue unbridled slip. May the heart’s best impulse ever check them ere they soil the lip……”
“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:29-32).
God gives us instruction on how to handle our anger in 1 John. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9). Let’s love one another!
Resource(s): Personal Bible study from the (NIV) Bible
