Anger

Anger

James states it in greater detail, calling it “the wrath of man” (Jas. 1:20), in contrast to the wrath of God.

The wrath [anger] of man is a very big sin that has huge ramifications. It includes the transgression of many laws of the Spirit of life. It is the direct opposite of the corresponding virtues of Christ. When you are angry or quick-tempered, you transgress the laws of meekness, patience, forbearance, longsuffering, acceptance, peaceableness, love, and wisdom.

We can get angry and fall in this sin when something is said or done against us—when something goes against our will; when we are defamed, lose something, are robbed or cheated of something, are treated unjustly, slandered, lied about; when something breaks or does not work out, etc.

Therefore the reason for anger is self-love! People love themselves and all their possessions instead of doing as Jesus says, hating their life in this world!

That is why anger usually clings to most people for a long time after their conversion. It has extremely deep and widespread roots.

Consequently, it is of the utmost importance to believe in a radical salvation from this great evil and to be obedient to the word in Colossians 3:8: “But now you must also put off all these: anger, wrath,” etc. Therefore it is entirely possible, and they are the first and second sins listed in this verse. Very significant!!!

There is a huge difference in degree of anger. It can boil in a person without him sinning with his lips. He can let angry words flow out or also use insulting words, or hit another person or even use a weapon. However, it is sin in every case. The sooner you put a stop to anger, the less sin there will be.

We cannot enter the kingdom of God unless we have put off anger and wrath. This is clearly evident from Galatians 5:20 and 21. This is a matter of the utmost seriousness!

On the other hand, it must be said that when a person has really put off anger by God’s great grace and power, a radical and glorious salvation has taken place! Yes, it has wide and deep consequences.

“For wrath brings the punishment of the sword . . . .” Job 19:29. “But the hypocrites in heart store up wrath . . . .” Job 36:13.

“Do not fret because of evildoers, nor be envious of the workers of iniquity.” Ps. 37:1. “Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him; do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, because of the man who brings wicked schemes to pass. Cease from anger, and forsake wrath; do not fret—it only causes harm.” Ps. 37:7-8. In verse 11 we see the opposite of anger and wrath: “The meek shall inherit the earth.”

“Anger rests in the bosom of fools.” Eccl. 7:9.

Thus the anger of man proves that he is a hypocrite in heart and a fool!

Indeed, it is folly and utter madness! Of what benefit could it then possibly be? For example, that which was broken or lost does not become whole again because of our anger, or does not come back again! And whom should my anger make happy or edify—me or the person with whom I am angry? Or on whom is my anger supposed to have a drawing effect? Or whom is it supposed to convince that I am living an overcoming life and that I am free from honor and possessions??