Anger is a destructive emotion when not handled properly. It can destroy relationships, dreams, and reputations. But when handled well and with grace, it becomes a very powerful emotion that will help us become more obedient to God and loving to others.
Sinful anger
Anger is sinful when coupled with selfish desires. When our pride is hit, we respond in anger. When our dreams aren't met, we lash out at others in our disappointment. Anger, when not countered by forgiveness, becomes a dangerous emotion that makes us forget our very standing in God: a forgiven people.
Matthew 18:21-34 gives us the famous parable of the unforgiving servant who, after having his debt cancelled and himself forgiven by his gracious master, did not forgive another man who owed him a small amount. Apparently, he forgot that he himself was forgiven. Read what happened next:
"So when his fellow servants saw what had been done, they were very grieved, and came and told their master all that had been done. Then his master, after he had called him, said to him, 'You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you begged me. Should you not also have had compassion on your fellow servant, just as I had pity on you?' And his master was angry, and delivered him to the torturers until he should pay all that was due to him."
Friends, anger must be dealt with properly and with grace, if we want to avoid sinning. Here are some ways to handle anger without sinning.
1. Remember that we are all doomed to hell and death without God
We could all be angry at another person who hurt us, but remembering the grace that was extended to us on the cross of Christ helps us to quickly release forgiveness to our offenders. We must always remember that.
God's grace, shown through the atoning sacrifice of Christ Jesus, gives us the ultimate strength to resist taking our anger and turning it into a dangerous emotion called bitterness, hatred and prejudice.
2. Think before responding
Friends, none of us will be able to say that our anger is righteous, simply because no one is righteous. Thus, we should all think before reacting. Psalm 4:4 gives us that reminder as well.
"You can be angry, but do not sin! Think about this as you lie in bed, and calm down. (selah)" (Ps. 4:4 CJB)
3. Don't sleep on it, but let it go quickly
Ephesians 4:26-27 tells us, "Be angry, and do not sin: do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil."
When we stay angry, we increase the chances of giving the devil a foothold through bitterness, prejudice, or unforgiveness. We should decide to release the offence, deal with the sin involved, and quickly forgive the offender. Don't let your anger destroy your day, and don't take it with you to another day. Let it go.
