Anger: a strong feeling of annoyance, displeasure, or hostility.
As it seems, the Bible does not say not to be angry. It instead reveals to us that in our anger we should know or learn how to compose ourselves. As with any teaching, when telling someone how to respond to situations, we must be the living example of what we teach. But then perhaps we should once again look to the best examples, which we find in our daily guide, the Bible. Anger is an emotion, therefore a natural occurrence, so we can only guide it. Life is a continual test, so we must study and teach how to pass through as smoothly as possible. In regards to anger, the Bible says “The LORD [is] merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy. (Psalms 103:8). This is our example, and we must be cautious to ask how and not why. In our human nature, many times when given instruction that may not correlate with our plans, we tend to ask why and challenge what we feel is challenging us. Instead though, when instructed from God, even if “challenged”, we should by faith follow his example and ask “how can I do what you have shown me to the best of my ability.”
In the first chapter of James (v.20), it states, “For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.” As said before, anger in itself is not wrong. Our reaction to that anger in a negative way is defined as wrong. The “wrath of man” is that anger taken to another level. It is the response to anger that is composed of a desire to retaliate with a heart of revenge. Righteousness does not contain retaliation. While “the wrath of man” invites this retaliation and an attitude that promotes inflicting harm, the righteousness of God is that which perfectly encourages and enforces what is right and just. Hurting and harming others as a response to the way they treat us or talk about us will only slow our walk with God. We cannot grow while holding on to the weight of wrath. Instead, we should do what is right, what is righteous and open our hearts, thawing the coldness and forgive our offenders.
Forgiveness is not always easy. Once again we need to remember that in our Christian journey, when attempting to be in compliance with God, we need to ask how instead of why? The apostle Paul says in Ephesians 4:26, “Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:” This verse suggests that we forgive and find resolution before the end of the day. There is no need in beginning a new day with the unnecessary weight of wrath on our hearts. And also, the time spent on realizing the error of wrath could be spent growing ourselves and others in Christ. As humans, this may be difficult, but as Christians we should put this into practice, so that in time it will become easier to do. And as we follow God as our example, so will we too be an example for someone else learning to forgive instead of retaliating.
