Christian Pitfalls: Anger

Refrain from anger, and forsake wrath! Fret not yourself; it tends only to evil.

Psalm 35:8 (ESV)

For the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.

James 1:20 (ESV)

World English Dictionary calls anger…

  • 'A feeling of great annoyance or antagonism as the result of some real or supposed grievance.'

Easton's Bible Dictionary says anger…

  • 'Is not necessarily sinful. It may, however, become sinful when causeless, or excessive, or protracted.'

The Almighty says…

  • 'He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty' (Proverbs 16:32).

In my before-Christ years, that wasn’t me. I was fault-finding and quick to condemn: blind, deaf, and dumb to my hypocrisy, while I focused on the flaws in others.

I praise God that, Jesus, the Transformer, has changed me… in countless amazing ways,

But…

Anger still lurks behind disappointments. Will I open a door to a demon? Or will I imitate Christ, my Savior, because…

  • 'The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in mercy' (Psalm 103:8). 

  • 'Not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance' (2 Peter 3:9).

Actors, models, and talent for Christ:

Anger may be an act you play onstage, but ditch that hell-raising script in real life. It’s a pitfall that will stall your success. Like a good mom, I want better for you.

When people mess up, forgive and forget. 'Be angry, and yet do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and do not give the devil an opportunity' (Ephesians 4:26-27).

Don’t let yourself become Satan’s mouthpiece.

Trust God to defend, avenge, and repay. If you step back, He'll step up– without fail.

Christian Pitfalls: Anger (Part 21)

NOTE: God is my Ghostwriter. If what I write is good, it’s from God. You may see notes to 'Actors, Models & Talent for Christ.' If you think you're not in show business, think again. Shakespeare said, 'All the world's a stage and all its men and women merely players.’ Mostly true. But you're not merely players. You are messengers and ambassadors for the King of kings.

Carey Arban