Introductory Thoughts
In an environment where strife prevails, an angry man thrives. The Bibles points out that this type of person looks for ways to stir up strife. Perhaps he asks questions to get opinions involving others to gauge any dissatisfaction with them. He then turns any small frustration into a larger problem. Perhaps he uses other methods, but the end goal remains the same; he wants to stir up strife. He does this not only in the lives of others, but in his own heart as well. Instead of focusing upon reasons to rejoice in the Lord, he looks for reasons to be frustrated. All the while, he is walking in the flesh and missing out on the fruit of the Spirit: “love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance” (Galatians 5:22-23).
Devotional Thoughts
-
(For children): Read Proverbs 15:18. It is easy to see how people who do not love God can be angry and stir up strife (Genesis 4:3-8; Esther 3:5-6). Yet, people who love God, if not cautious, can also become angry and stir up strife (1 Samuel 20:30-34; Acts 15:36-40).
-
(For everyone): Do you become angry when you should be rejoicing? Do you seem to be drawn to strife rather than to peace? Why do you think this is so?
-
Is it possible that anger has taken root in your heart? Is it possible that you have become bitter? What steps can you take to get this right with the Lord?
Prayer Thoughts
- Repent before God for the anger that has crept into your heart.
- Ask God for help as you cease from anger.
Song
YIELD NOT TO TEMPTATION
