Introductory Thoughts
When speaking of anger, the scripture uses descriptive terms that could equally be applied to the truths concerning fire. In doing so, the Bible makes a connection that can help believers gain a better understanding of the benefits or dangers of anger. According to scripture, anger can be kindled, a term used to describe the starting of a fire (Exodus 4:14; Numbers 11:1; Deuteronomy 32:22; Jeremiah 15:14), either a little (Psalm 2:12) or greatly (Numbers 11:10; 1 Samuel 11:6). The Bible also describes anger as waxing hot (Exodus 32:19), another connection to fire. These similarities are by divine design. As is true concerning fire, anger can be useful and productive, but it can also be destructive and harmful, especially when it gets out of control.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): Gods fiery anger was kindled many times against His own people (Numbers 21:5-6; Numbers 25:2-3; Numbers 32:10-13). His anger proved harmful to them but can be useful to us if we are willing to learn from it (1 Corinthians 10:5-11).
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(For everyone): Do you frequently grow angry? How does your anger affect others? What is usually the outcome of your anger? Do things get fixed or grow increasingly worse?
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What are some ways in which you think anger might be likened to fire? What are some benefits of fire? Can you name any benefits of anger (Proverbs 25:23)? What are the dangers of fire? What are some dangers of anger?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord for a scriptural balance when it comes to anger.
- Ask God to guard you from the dangers of anger.
Song
HIS WAY WITH THEE
