52. Jesus teaches about anger
– Matthew 5:21-26
Matthew 5:21-22 “Do not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgement. But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgement.”
While killing is a terrible sin, anger is also a great sin because it violates God’s command to love. We all know that murdering someone is bad. But, do you consider being angry with someone comparably bad? It’s easy to think of yourself as righteous because you follow all of the big commandments. But, Jesus teaches us that all of the commandments are important. At the end of the day, a sin is a sin whether its murder or anger. Both, will lead someone to death and destruction. Anger will keep you from developing a spirit pleasing to God. You will be held accountable not only for your actions but also your thoughts. Evaluate your mindset. Do you become angry easily? Transform your thoughts of anger to thoughts of love. Try to see the other person through the eyes of God. If you are having trouble forgiving the person, then think about how God has forgiven you.
Matthew 5:23-24 “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the alter and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the alter. First go and be reconciled with your brother; then come and offer your gift.”
How can we honor God if our heart is not in the right place? Being angry with someone will hurt your relationship with God. There is no better time than now to reconcile a relationship. Our God is a God of redemption. If you seek his help, he will transform the relationship. Evaluate your heart. Is there anyone who you may not be at peace with right now? Be honest. Before you lift your arms up to God, go make things right with that person. Make sure your heart is in the right place so that God can grow you into the person you are meant to become.
