“Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:” Ephesians 4:26.

Anger is a justifiable emotion; we all get angry, and if we say we do not then we are a lie. But how we choose to manage our anger points to whether we have allowed the enemy to set a trap in our path that leads to sin. Ephesians 4:26 state “Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:”

When we get angry, it is usually someone or something that has caused us to get upset; our immediate reaction is to respond to the incident and retaliate. Why? Because self-preservation is the first law of nature . . . we are either physically or mentally offended-we become defensive, desiring to protect ourselves from the displeasure or hurt. This places us in a vulnerable state and easy bait for the arch enemy of our souls.

Exactly what did the Apostle Paul mean about being angry and sinning not? It is an admonition to check ourselves. If we are angry for a just cause, then reprove or handle it in the spirit of love; we can either be objective or subjective in the matter …subjective means that our actions, words, or deeds are directed at the person and lead to selfish motives, and objective means that our focus is on the event instead.

When we handle things objectively, we can think clearly and remember that none of us are perfect…we should ask ourselves, am I put in any impending danger and need to protect myself from immediate physical harm-if not, let it go…do not allow the devil to plant a seed of hatred and ill-will for another in your heart. “And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.” 1 Peter 4:8. People tend to listen more when they are not being attacked and set on the defense, self-included!

The Our Father prayer reminds us to forgive others as our Father in heaven forgives us. “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” Matthew 6:14-15. God is gracious and ever so merciful; He lovingly forgives us over and over again.

Let us humbly learn to extend grace to others; be swift or ready for reconciliation and learn to focus on their good oppose to unfavorable qualities; the Holy Spirit will always remind us of the appropriate action to take when we find ourselves faced with justifiable anger; it is true, that following His leading and remaining prayerful, will keep us in perfect peace!

God Blessings of grace and mercy be with you all.