You know this, my beloved brothers and sisters. Now everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger; for a man’s anger does not bring about the righteousness of God. James 1:19-20
What thoughts run through your mind when you get angry? When we experience this emotion, our thoughts and our actions are impacted by how we feel. This passage is immediately convicting for many of us because anger often takes over us before we even recognize it. Being quick to hear (or listen) is not often something that is natural, as we are used to preparing a quick response. Further, being slow to anger feels impossible when we feel justified in our anger. Following the way of Christ requires that we slow down. It requires trusting God even when we feel we are right.
James is clear about one thing: The ends do not justify the means. Our anger, even when we feel justified, is dangerous when not surrendered to God. A man’s anger does not bring about the righteousness of God. Even in the heat of the moment, we can lift our feelings to our heavenly Father, who is ready to lead us when we come to Him. This call is for all in Christ, to do the hard work of hearing, loving, being patient, and going to God when anger threatens to consume.
- When has anger taken over you? How did you act? What in this passage was hardest for you in that moment?
- What is the hardest part of slowing down when you are angry? How can you include God next time that emotion starts to creep up on you?
- Pray and ask God to help you slow down in the heat of the moment of frustration and turn to Him.
