26 “In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 and do not give the devil a foothold.
31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Paul does not say that every experience of anger is sinful. He warns us not to sin in our anger and not to allow anger to remain.
Anger may knock at the door, but we do not have to give it a room.
When anger is allowed to stay, it gathers companions: bitterness, harsh words, suspicion and revenge. Yesterday’s frustration becomes today’s atmosphere. We may eventually forget the details of the offence while continuing to carry its anger.
God invites us to deal with anger before it settles into the heart. This may involve prayer, confession, a courageous conversation, forgiveness or seeking wise help.
We are not asked simply to remove anger. We are called to replace it with kindness, compassion and forgiveness. Jesus does more than empty the room; He fills it with His presence.
What anger have I allowed to remain longer than it should?
Father, I confess the anger I have carried. Show me what needs to be addressed, forgiven or released. Replace resentment with compassion and harshness with the kindness of Christ. Amen.
