Introductory Thoughts
Some Bible teachers have erroneously suggested that anger is a sin. But God actually commands His people to be angry, yet further instructs them not to allow that anger to push them to respond sinfully (Ephesians 4:26). If a man can be angry without sinning, then anger is not a sin. In fact, anger used in a righteous manner can accomplish many things for the Lord. One of the benefits of anger is found in today’s passage. A good, healthy, angry countenance can serve as the best remedy to keep people from backbiting others while in your presence. The reason people backbite others is because they have an audience for their vitriol. If we would express our displeasure, the backbiting would cease. Try it out! The backbiting tongue will cease the moment you respond with an angry countenance.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): If one of your friends speaks against another person, you can tell him that you don't want to hear it and that he should go talk directly to that person. Try to find something kind and nice to say about the person being discussed.
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(For everyone): Do you find that your ear is often the recipient of a backbiting tongue? Do others find comfort in telling you the bad news about others? How do you react when people backbite others while in your presence?
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What could you say to someone in order to let him know that backbiting others is not at all acceptable to you? How could you let that individual know that God is not pleased with his words?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord to give you wisdom when dealing with backbiters.
- Ask God to help you prevent the backbiting that happens in your presence.
Song
BLEST BE THE TIE THAT BINDS
