ANGRY AT THE WORLD

But now ye also put off all
these; anger, wrath, malice,
blasphemy, filthy communication
out of your mouth
Colossians 3:8

When very young and especially when in grade school, we have all probably heard the words, “I'm mad at you.” Looking back, the reasons were pretty lame compared to adult standards. The anger could be caused by something as simple as refusing to play a game another friend wanted to play. It all looks so simple now. With children, we also know that being mad at another friend didn't last long and play could restart an hour later with anger forgotten.

Several years ago, while reading my Bible and studying the book of Colossians, I came across chapter 3. It's one of those portions where the Holy Spirit stopped me in my tracks. Since that time, I've often invited ladies to join me in periodically using that chapter for a sincere time of spiritual inventory. The chapter contains some “put off and put on's” that are really quite clear. Prior to those, verses 1-4 are wonderful verses of assurance regarding our relationship with Jesus Himself.

I'm recalling the first time though that it dawned on me, the importance of that chapter. I sincerely try to remember when beginning any Bible reading to ask the Holy Spirit to teach me and even stop me where I need to stop and really think. On that particular day, I got down to the above verse. I read through the first phrase and came to “anger.” I paused for a moment wondering why that verse stood out to me. I tried to read on but I kept coming back to “anger.” I recall saying out loud: “I'M NOT ANGRY.” Then I decided to prayerfully ponder the possibility that I was. I realized that through the years so many things had happened in my life that gave me pause to be angry and through those years had just stuffed it all inside.

Anger is a very strong emotion. It can go from a simple annoyance rapidly to anger and perhaps even to hostility. We see it in the news almost on a daily basis. Who could have seen into the future the unkindness shown by the nicest of people. It would never have crossed our minds. As believers, what are some steps we can take to help with any anger we are dealing with? I'm working on these things myself on a daily basis.

*In Proverbs we are cautioned to not make friends with angry people. Good place to start.
*Understand that unbelievers don't have the strength we have to control themselves or even to love others.
*Be quick to pray. When those negative feelings begin to rise up, pray immediately. It doesn't have to take hours, for God can act on our behalf at any time.
*Be in the Word. Satan hates hearing the Word. It was so with Jesus in the wilderness and is the same with us in our wilderness times. Quote or even read Scripture aloud as often as possible
*When anger is building, put it in check quickly. It's something that grows fast and becomes overpowering if not handled in the moment.
*There's nothing wrong with admitting when we're angry...we are human beings. Confess it quickly to the Lord. Anger and guilt is never a good combination.
*Lastly, guard your mind. Don't watch TV news on ANY station. Be careful what you read or who you listen to. This has been among my latest moves and it feels great.

Our world needs our love and prayers more than ever. We musn't under-underestimate the power of acts of kindness, words of friendship/love and expressing words of blessing in another's life. If we aren't Jesus to others who need Him, they may never find Him.

Father, help us to be more in control of our emotions. Lead us to action only with situations where we can make a contribution for good. May Your Holy Spirit continue to remind and prompt us when we need direction and better yet, help us to respond in ways that would please You. In Jesus' precious name...Amen