Anger Is Heavy. Let It Go!
Saturday, February 17
Ephesians 4:26-27 (NIV)
“In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.”
Devotion
In this scripture, Paul encourages the Ephesians (and us) to “live and act in a way worthy of those who have been chosen, and to prepare for spiritual battle.” Addressing the problem of anger, Paul first suggests that we simply not allow ourselves to sin in our anger, but knowing human nature, Paul goes on to counsel us to keep short accounts when hostile feelings arise.
Jesus often became angry at the Pharisees and his disciples, especially Peter. Jesus’ response to anger was always to do God’s will by speaking God’s Word over the situation. In Matthew 16:21, Jesus had just revealed to his disciples for the first time that he was to go to Jerusalem to suffer, die, and be raised to life. Though Peter understood what Jesus said, he simply didn’t want to believe it. So, Peter began to rebuke Jesus for having such a fatalistic mindset.
Although Peter had just moments before declared Jesus as the Christ, he turned from God’s perspective and viewed the situation from man’s perspective, which brought Jesus’ rebuke: “Get behind me, Satan!” Jesus went on to explain: “You do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men” (Mark 8:33).
Scripture doesn’t say not to get angry; rather it is an emotion we need to control and to deal with it like Jesus did. We should apply the truth of God’s Word before the day is over. If we let it simmer, it will turn into resentment and unforgiveness — right where our enemy wants us to be — in bondage.
By resolving our differences and dealing with our emotions before nightfall, we effectively starve, rather than feed our anger. And when we take each battle to the Lord, with the discernment and wisdom He gives us, allows us to have peace and focus on being reconciled in our relationships.
Today’s Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for teaching us the right way to resolve our anger and pain. When rage and resentment infest our minds and hearts, we ask that the wisdom of Your Word will calm our minds, soothe our hearts, and fill our lives with Your perfect peace. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
Apply It Today
Ephesians 4:26 tells us to “Be angry and do not sin, and give no place to the devil.” Think about these words anytime you feel anger rising within you, and determine within your heart not to let the devil have dominance over you, rather, in your anger, do not sin.
Resources:
- It’s time to stop fighting and start letting go of the burden of unforgiveness. Watch the message, “Choosing Not To Fight,” and be encouraged.
- Some things are hard to let go of, but with a bit of help, this is possible. Check out our Counseling Services and get the much-needed counsel you need.