Daily Grace Devotional September 26, 2024 By Evang. Ubong Ifiok
Anger Serves No Good Purpose
Scripture:
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.”
— James 1:19-20 (NIV)
Message:
Anger is a powerful emotion that can lead to destructive actions if not kept in check. While it’s natural to feel anger in certain situations, the Bible teaches us that human anger rarely leads to positive outcomes. In fact, it often pulls us away from God’s desire for us to live righteously and in peace with others. James 1:20 reminds us that anger does not produce the righteousness of God. Instead, it leads to bitterness, resentment, and actions we later regret.
When we allow anger to control us, it distorts our judgment, making it difficult to respond with grace and love. Anger clouds our minds and can cause us to speak harsh words or make rash decisions that hurt others and ourselves. The Bible instructs us to be slow to anger, emphasizing the importance of patience, self-control, and forgiveness.
Ephesians 4:26-27 says, “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.” This verse acknowledges that anger is a natural emotion but warns us not to let it fester or lead us into sin. Harboring anger opens the door for negative influences to take hold in our lives, creating bitterness and division.
Instead of allowing anger to build up, we should seek God’s peace in difficult situations. When we feel anger rising, it’s an opportunity to turn to God in prayer, asking Him to calm our hearts and help us respond with love and patience. In moments of frustration, Jesus is our perfect example. He faced immense opposition and suffering, yet He responded with compassion and forgiveness.
We are called to follow His example, putting aside anger and choosing instead to walk in love, grace, and understanding. When we surrender our emotions to God and allow His Spirit to work in us, we will find that anger no longer controls us, and we can live in peace with those around us.
Prayer:
Father, I ask that You help me to control my anger and respond with grace and patience in all situations. Teach me to be slow to anger and quick to forgive, just as You have forgiven me. Help me to live a life that reflects Your love and righteousness, and may I be a peacemaker in every situation. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Further Reading:
- Proverbs 14:29
- Ephesians 4:26-27
- Colossians 3:8
- Matthew 5:22
- Proverbs 15:1
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