How do we react in troubling times when frustration leads to words of anger and even violence? At first, we are appalled, and rightly so, while we stand against violence. But in the discussions that follow, we often see accusations, division, and bitterness. This is not a good path to be on.
The best advice comes from the timeless Book of Wisdom – the Bible. Paul wrote, “In your anger, do not sin” (Ephesians 4:26). He didn’t say, “Don’t be angry.”Anger is a true human emotion. But he continued, “Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.” It’s what we do with our anger that’s important.
From a spiritual standpoint, we realize that forces of evil have long attempted to pull us away from God’s principles of peaceful living. Angry thoughts and words can become steppingstones to wrong actions. James wrote, “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for human anger does not produce the righteous life that God desires” (James 1:19,20).
Therefore, as we interact with others, first we listen actively to the heart of their words. Then, instead of spouting knee-jerk, angry words, we think about our response. Paul wrote, “Do not let any unwholesome (literally, “rotten, decayed”) talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen” (Ephesians 4:29).
In these days I have listened to/read a lot of accusations and opinions that were not well-founded. And I admit, I also can get emotional and let strong words escape my lips. So how can we do better?
- Confess: God understands that we humans need help with strong emotions. When we confess our weakness and wrong actions to Him, “He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). He tells us, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect (complete) in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9). God will answer our prayers and lead us on a better path if we listen to His words. This path may include saying, “I’m sorry” to others.
- Allow the Holy Spirit to influence our emotions and our impulses. The evidence of His control shows up as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, and self-control.
- PRAY for others and ourselves. In our helplessness, we’re reminded that God is in control and is “able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us” (Ephesians 3:20). God’s power can do far more than our words. He loves us and is at work in our world!
- SHARE words of encouragement, love, and faith to those who badly need it–in person, on social media, and email.
I highly recommend these articles:
“3 Prayers for a Nation in Crisis,” by Dave Butts
“Truths to Remember: How to Pray When a Nation Is in Turmoil,” by David Kubal
(from Church Prayer Leaders Network’s Prayer Connect Magazine)