25 SEP 23 Monday: A Closer Walk Devotional
“You have heard that our ancestors were told, ‘You must not murder. If you commit murder, you are subject to judgment.’ But I say, if you are even angry with someone, you are subject to judgment!”. Matthew 5: 21-22a
I was driving along to work one day and everything was moving smoothly. Traffic was bad, but at least it was moving. I had plenty of gas so I wasn’t afraid I would run out. If you are like me, I sometimes wait until it is a quarter of a tank to fill up again. Some of you wait until the warning light comes on because you know you have a few more miles until empty. This drive to work had a different warning light come on, the dreaded engine light.
Warning lights on the dash are there for a reason. The sensors indicate there is a problem that needs to be looked at soon. Today’s cars have all kinds of sensors for a myriad of potential issues. We have those too, really. Anger is one of those. Anger can be righteous or sinful, both put off similar indicators. James says that temptation starts in the mind from our own desires.
Those desires can entice us which in turn become actions. If the desires are allowed to grow, it travels to the heart and it burns inside us. Jesus speaks of sinful anger that if stewed on will lead to hate which will lead to actions up to the point of murder. Our thought life must be captured and controlled for Christ’s sake and ours. Our thought life is important to God and we will answer for it. The Holy Spirit will also throw up a warning light and a way to tame or escape it.
You may delay filling up with gas or taking the car to the shop when it needs repair, but eventually, it will lead to greater damage and more cost. Save yourself some pain and deal with your anger quickly before it turns into something that causes damage and costs you dearly. Confess it God and ask for help and forgiveness. Then, make it right with the one you are angry with.
Are you struggling with anger and hatred?
Reading Plan: Psalm 80; 2 Kings. 5:1-19; 1 Cor. 4: 8-21; Matt. 5:21-26
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