ANGER

"For the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God" (James 1:20).

 

Remember from yesterday that James equated anger with speaking when we should be listening.  If you ever argue (maybe I should put "when you argue") then you know what James is talking about.  The nature of an argument is to speak loudly over the other person rather than listening to them.  You want to win! (and of course you always lose).  In an argument, God's righteousness is not accomplished and no one is being heard.  "Righteousness of God" here should be understood as right living or doing the right thing as God defines "right".  There is such a thing as "righteous anger".  Jesus displayed it when he cleared the temple.  Here's the thing though--most of us rarely experience that kind of anger.  Ours is usually filled with a selfish defense of our rights.  Here's how you can check yourself when you are starting to get angry.  Evaluate your anger in the context of the Spirit's fruits: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.  If your anger displays these virtues--go for it!  Otherwise, "be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger" (James 1:19).

 

Today, practice letting God be in control of your emotions. If you are wronged--just tell your Daddy--He will take care of it.