Defining Anger
Today's Scripture
"And 'don’t sin by letting anger control you.' Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil." - (Ephesians 4:26-27 NLT)
Thoughts for Today
Anger is a common, human, everyday emotional reaction people feel in response to various situations. Sometimes simple irritation is misunderstood as full-blown anger, causing us subsequent guilt or fear of this normal human emotion.
Anger is a complex emotion but it is definable and recognizable. It is generally felt as intense energy or a progressive surge of emotional energy involving one's feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. This week we will examine these three components.
Consider this . . .
Anger is real. We have all experienced it. The Bible tells us God gets angry too. Anger can be a positive and constructive force in the Christian life. But it can also be a negative and destructive force. Today's scripture tells us not to sin by letting anger control us.
Think about recent times you were angry. What made you angry? Did you stay in control . . . or did anger take over? Did your anger bring about anything positive . . . or was it destructive? Are you still carrying a grudge? The Bible tells us not to let the sun go down on our wrath.
Father, I know I sometimes become angry simply because I'm not getting my own way. When that happens, I know I am not accomplishing anything positive with my anger. Please forgive me and help me learn to manage my anger. In Jesus' name . . .
These thoughts were drawn from …
Anger: Our Master or Our Servant by Larry Heath. This study offers a clear explanation of anger, what causes it, and how to recognize when you are sinning with anger. It not only ministers to church members, but serves as a powerful evangelistic tool. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.
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