March 29, 2019 – Ephesians 4:25-27

So stop telling lies. Let us tell our neighbors the truth, for we are all parts of the same body. And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil. Ephesians 4:25-27.

Have you ever felt the fire of anger course through you? It’s frightening.  What causes this anger?  The desire to control everything in our lives, including the people.  We glibly say, God is in control.  When we realize in our very souls we are not God, we choose not be angry.  

Being angry and surrendering to acting out gives the devil an open door to our hearts.  Angry words fly and our actions are no longer controlled by His Love. This is when we make the decision to trust God, and give our anger to Him.  Only through prayer can we allow His love to permeate our souls. Then anger loses its control and we  ‘get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, slander, and evil behavior.’

Be kind, tenderhearted, forgiving one another as God, through Jesus Christ, has forgiven us.  Read the teachings of Jesus in Matthew 5:3-12.   One young man, when provoked, says, ‘God bless his heart!’  Pray, asking God to care for the hurting angry person.  Matthew 5:9. God blesses those who work for peace,  for they will be called the children of God.

You have charged us to keep your commandments carefully. Oh, that my actions would consistently reflect your decrees!  (Psalm 119:4-5).  Dear Lord, help me to reflect your kindness and love! Help me to rejoice in You alone!

Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. Ephesians 4:31-32.