In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.
Ephesians 4:26-27 NIV
Anger is an emotional response to something we have seen, heard, or experienced that has caused us distress. All of us experience anger from time to time. It is a natural emotion. But it is essential that we learn to deal with our anger. If properly channeled, it can be constructive. But we often allow it to become a destructive force in our lives.
Paul tells us here to be careful not to let our anger lead us into sin. Our natural temptation is to respond negatively to whatever has triggered our anger. To let that anger take control of our response. A response that all too often is inappropriate. Instead of allowing my anger to control me, I should learn to control it.
A second thing Paul tells us to do concerning our anger is not to allow it to fester. It may not be feasible to deal with my anger before the sun goes down. But I need to resolve the issue as soon as possible. The longer I take to resolve it, the more likely it will lead me into sin. And unresolved anger is like a poison that will seep into my whole life, corrupting everything it touches.
If not dealt with appropriately, anger will allow the devil a foothold in our lives. He will use it to lead us into sin. And to poison our spirits, hindering our relationships with other believers and our Lord. Anger itself is not wrong. But it is important not to allow it to control us, corrupting our lives. Instead, learn to deal constructively with anger.
