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Anger

I get jealous. I get angry. One can lead to the other. The parable of the prodigal son is a classic example. The faithful brother was jealous and got angry. It did not go well for him.

In our crazy social media world, we see the fun and success of others and get angry. One more reason to avoid Facebook altogether. Jealousy and anger must be dealt with.

Paul warns us in Galatians (5:19-21):

“Now the works of the flesh are obvious: … strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, dissensions, factions, and anything similar. I am warning you about these things—as I warned you before—that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.”

Yikes! I won’t inherit the Kingdom of God. Seriously? Yes!

  • Luke 15:28 — 28 “But he became angry and was not willing to go in; and his father came out and began pleading with him.
  • Genesis 4:4–5 — 4 Abel, on his part also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of their fat portions. And the Master had regard for Abel and for his offering; 5 but for Cain and for his offering He had no regard. So Cain became very angry and his countenance fell.
  • 1 Samuel 17:28 — 28 Now Eliab his oldest brother heard when he spoke to the men; and Eliab’s anger burned against David and he said, “Why have you come down? And with whom have you left those few sheep in the wilderness? I know your insolence and the wickedness of your heart; for you have come down in order to see the battle.”
  • 1 Samuel 18:8 — 8 Then Saul became very angry, for this saying displeased him; and he said, “They have ascribed to David ten thousands, but to me they have ascribed thousands. Now what more can he have but the kingdom?”
  • 1 Kings 21:4 — 4 So Ahab came into his house sullen and vexed because of the word which Naboth the Jezreelite had spoken to him; for he said, “I will not give you the inheritance of my fathers.” And he lay down on his bed and turned away his face and ate no food.

So we see how urgent it is to put off the ways of our flesh and work out our salvation with fear and trembling. Our God is merciful and we are currently still in the Age of Grace (although it will end).

Let’s commit to ask the Lord to reveal any area of ourselves that is still struggling with anger or jealousy and then change our minds (aka repent) and turn the other way. Let’s seek His guidance and the power of the Holy Spirit which is the only way it will be possible.

Thank You Father God for Your words of wisdom and righteousness and for lighting our path one step at a time. Please help us do what You tell us is our next step in faith and obedience. We thank You and pray in Jesus’ name, amen.