Give Up Your Rage

Refrain from anger and give up your rage; do not be agitated -- it can only bring harm. For evildoers will be destroyed, but those who hope in Yahweh will inherit the land. - Psalm 37:8-9

Most of us are usually angered by a perceived injustice, be it personal or upon someone (or something) we care about. I am grieved the most when anger exists between brothers and sisters in Christ. Of course, though we all get angry from time to time, it rarely serves God's purposes. So, how can we overcome destructive anger?

First, extend grace. A person may not deserve your favor, but you should remember that you do not deserve God's favor any more than they do. Second, be certain that you stand with God on every issue and if you are certain that you stand with Him, then let Him handle His own opposition. Third, acknowledge that not all differences or disagreements are "I'm right and you're wrong." Some viewpoints have equal merit before an omniscient God.

Finally, always ask yourself, "Does my anger truly glorify God?" If not, drop it.

No matter how just your words may be, you ruin everything when you speak with anger. - John Chrysostom