Daily life with Jesus by Grahame Howard: Be in control of your anger

"Be angry, and do not sin, do not let the sun go down on your wrath, 27 nor give place to the devil." Ephesians 4:26-27 NKJV

Is it right to become angry? Yes and no. If the anger is a righteous anger, making a stand for God over some non-Christian act, then this is ok, if one remains in control of their anger by choosing not to use foul language but what is wholesome. However, if a person becomes angry with their spouse, friend or workmate over something, and this turns to bad language and violence, then it is wrong. The anger has taken over and the devil has the foothold.

A good example is Jesus in the temple (Matt 21:12-13. He became angry to see money changers and traders inside the temple misusing what the temple stood for. This made Him angry and He turned over the tables and threw the traders out. They were making a mockery of His Father's house and He was not having it. Note though, even though He was angry, He was in control and sin was nowhere near Him.

God Himself became angry with Moses because of his procrastination in taking on the job He had for him - to go and persuade Pharaoh to release the Israelites (Exodus 4:14). Again, though His anger blazed within Him (CSB version), He was in total control.

And this is the way God expects us to be with the people who test our patience. James puts it in perspective, "You must all be, quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to get angry. 20 Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires.' Jas 1:19-20 NLT

If we vent our anger thoughtlessly, it can hurt the listener and probably cause a great scene. Married couples need to practice how they talk to each other. Arguments are inevitable within relationships, but when one resorts to anger, words are spoken that shouldn't be and, they are like little daggers that pierce the heart and can cause lasting damage. Control your anger, in fact, your anger should only be released for unrighteous occasions. One of the problems is that we carry a lot of negativity around within us and all of a sudden, one little remark can cause an eruption. Don't do this; you will become frustrated with life issues but find a way to release this build up without hurting anyone. Sport is good; or walking, controlling your breathing to get in control of the stress within.

Imagine a tin of Pepsi. One can shake it around but the fluid remains inside the tin. However, take the clip off and ERUPTION.. the Pepsi spurts everywhere. This is like built up anger. You carry things around with you and, if you don't vent this carefully, you can blow up in a rage when pushed into a corner. Don't allow this; find a way to release the pressures within. This way you will be in control.

If you don't know Jesus or have fell away, here is a prayer for you:

'Lord Jesus, I have sinned and I ask you to forgive me and be my Lord and Saviour. Please come into my heart, fill me with Your Spirit and give me a brand new start today.

In Jesus' Name. Amen'

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