Travelling on a train, Jai was seated next to a businessman who remarked, “to progress in life, a person needs to control his anger.” He further elaborated, that nations and individuals who fight, destroy themselves and others. Unbridled rage brings economic disaster but is also spiritually damaging.
Jai reasoned that anger against injustice is necessary, but that brings about a positive change, not destruction. Jai reflected on thee teachings of Jesus about anger. Jesus understood anger and knew how to respond when criticized or mistreated. In the Sermon on the Mount, he enlightens us about anger, contempt, and interpersonal conflict.
Jesus taught us not to let anger have dominion over us. Addressing the issue of worship, Jesus said, “If you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift. Settle matters quickly with your adversary” (Matthew 5:22-25). Our worship is unacceptable to God if anger has destroyed our relationship with others. Be the first to say “I’m sorry” or offer empathy and compassion. Is there unforgiven sin lurking in our lives? Cain was angry when God rejected his offering and accepted Abel, his younger brother’s offering. God warned Cain to control his anger, but he refused to listen and ended up murdering his brother.
Never seek revenge when wronged; share God’s generosity. Stand before the Lord as your gracious Judge and ask yourself: “What am I angry about?” God is gracious to us, so we need to be gracious to others. Treat conflict and injustice as an opportunity for you to grow in your capacity to share the kindness of Christ. Seek help to understand and overcome the issues you struggle with and above all, let the Holy Spirit fill your life with God’s love to be a blessing to others.