Tag: anger

Matthew 5:21-26 – Anger Management

Read Matthew 5:21-26

Anger is an emotion that can quickly escalate into something very ugly. When left unrestrained, anger can become rage leaving many hurts in its wake. Anger is also dangerous when it’s bottled up inside. It can be devastating when it finally lets loose. I suppose that’s why Jesus is warning us against it. While murder is clearly sinful, Jesus knows that anger is oftentimes the root reason leading to murder. He didn’t want us to think that it was just the killing part that was wrong.

We are bound to feel anger from time to time. Disappointment that something doesn’t go our way, or frustration when another’s mistake has caused us some discomfort. It is how we handle our anger that matters. That takes a lot of control. We need to recognize the signs leading up to this strong emotion and make sure we are redirecting our frustration in a healthy way.

Continue reading “Matthew 5:21-26 – Anger Management”

Genesis 4:1-16 – Jealousy

Read Genesis 4:1-16

When we think about how the world began, Adam and Even no doubt come to mind. The names Cain and Abel may also be familiar to us as the first two sons born of the first couple. Sibling rivalry at it’s worst. If you’ve had children or had siblings growing up, you know that there are times when kids don’t get along. Since each of us is gifted differently, there are bound to be issues. For instance, the musically inclined may wish they were athletic and visa versa. Perhaps the oldest (or the youngest) gets more attention. It’s when jealousy gets so overpowering that it can be dangerous.

In our Biblical account, the jealousy turned deadly. We’re not told why Cain’s sacrifice wasn’t accepted, but that was a big deal for him. We did hear that Abel brought “choice” lambs from the “best” of his flock for his sacrifice. It didn’t say Cain’s was bad, but it didn’t indicate it was his “best” stuff. God could clearly see the heart. In Cain’s despair, God cautioned him, “Sin is crouching at the door, eager to control you. But you must subdue it and be its master.” Obviously, Cain was not able or willing to be a master over this evil. Continue reading “Genesis 4:1-16 – Jealousy”

Ephesians 4:17-27 – It’s All About Unity

Read Ephesians 4:17-27

Because we are sinful humans, we tend to be at odds with each other. It was true for the folks in Ephesus, and it’s true for us today. Paul focuses on unity in the passages we are reading here, and there are some great nuggets of wisdom that stand the test of time.

Today we need to pick up a mirror. It’s easy for us to say we are pure and blameless. But when we look in the mirror, who do we see? If we are true to ourselves, we see a sinner who needs a savior. We see a believer who may be holding on to a grudge, judging their neighbor, or not trusting God with their life. Take a moment to really dig deep. There is something you lust for, something that is keeping you separated from God, something you need to cleanse. Continue reading “Ephesians 4:17-27 – It’s All About Unity”

Mark 3:1-6 – Not on the Sabbath

Read Mark 3:1-6

Jesus had emotion. Of course he did. But do we often picture Jesus angry? There are instances in Scripture, and that helps us to know we are not alone when our tempers well up. How we handle that anger is the critical thing.

We should never lash out, and yet we should never stuff our anger inside. There are healthy ways to manage anger, but I’m not an expert here. So, if that is your struggle, start with prayer, mediation and exercise, and then seek counsel from a good anger management coach.

For today, though, let’s look  at the dynamic playing out in our reading. It’s the Sabbath, the day of rest. Unfortunately, I am not familiar with anyone in my circle of friends that staunchly follows the rules of sabbath of no work. That would mean no cooking, no cleaning, no carrying, and in the case in point, no healing.

In my last post, I talked a little about Sabbath and it’s importance for us today. We need to set aside that quiet time with God on a regular basis to be fully devoted to that relationship. We need to be open to hear God’s voice. We need to find time to rest and regroup listening to God’s direction for us.

Jesus clearly sets us straight on sabbath when he says, “Does the law permit good deeds on the Sabbath, or is it a day for doing evil? Is this a day to save life or to destroy it?” Jesus has encountered critics here and they are described as having hard hearts. This angers him and then saddens him. What is his response? He heals the man, saves his life with a good deed, a miracle.

When I read of the people in the Bible, usually devout believers, that are out “to get” Jesus, I am always saddened. I know Jesus’ purpose was to live as a servant king to give us the blueprint for how to live our lives, but that he died for us always boggles my mind. I struggle with the fact that those who “knew the most” about the law were the very ones who didn’t recognize they were in the very presence of God.

I suppose it follows that if everyone was in love with Jesus and following him completely, there would be no crucifixion. With no crucifixion there would be no sacrifice for our sins or glorious resurrection. All a beautiful plan because our Lord loves us that much!

How does this speak to us today? Are our hearts hardened by life and circumstance? Are we ready to accept Jesus with our whole heart? Are we ready to expect his mercy any day of the week? How are you doing at setting aside time for sabbath with your king?

Let’s pray. Father, I relish our quiet times. I wish that everyone would make time in their day to spend time with you. For those that don’t know you, I ask that you use me in some way to change their behavior. I am saddened by this crazy world we live in, and my heart breaks for you, God. You are watching us demolish your creation, disrespect each other and be totally self absorbed. Forgive me when I fall victim to worldly desires. Thank you that you stand beside me to ground me and direct me, may I be obedient. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

error

Enjoy this blog? Please spread the word :)