Psalm 4

In your anger do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent.  (Psalm 4:4)

Anger is not sin, but anger unchecked can too easily lead to sin.  I was reflecting over the weekend how many times I have felt the red mist of anger take over my tongue in conversations ove recent weeks.  It was sobering to say the least.  I have reacted to hurtful words with self-righteous anger.  In so reacting I have felt a moment of vindication and satisfaction.  But it never lasts much longer than the second the  last word I utter in anger leaves my lips.

Anger-induced sin in my life includes bitterness, self-pity, dis-trust - even hatred.  Anger seeps poisonous thoughts into my mind out of which I then speak and act.  Anger, unchecked, robs me and others of life.

So at the end of each day I do well to search my heart - in silence to allow God to search my heart - and in the process surface unchecked, un-addressed anger that may lurk their seemingly hidden.  As it surfaces, in and through God's strength I resolve to do what is necessary to healthily deal with anger so it does not morph into resentment or worse.  It may require me to seek reconciliation, express a concern, make an apology or look for an explanation from a friend or colleague.  Whatever it takes, I do well to heed the avice to 'not let the sun go down while you are still angry. (Ephesians 4:6)

Comments

[barry dunnett]

resolve the situation that day - and yes it may mean swallowing pride - but a "load" is lifted and one sleeps better!