Ephesians 4 - 5.13.21

Scripture - What stood out?

Ephesians 4

26 Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, 27 and give no opportunity to the devil

Observation - What does it say?

The apostle Paul continuing to speak about what a new life in Christ may look like describes what anger should be for a Christian with a “new” outlook on life.

Understanding - What does it mean?

The apostle Paul implies that as a believer in Jesus now your anger must take on two characteristics. Your anger must not lead to sin and your anger must be short lived. 

Your anger must not lead to sin and your anger must be short lived.

It is hard to imagine that the apostle Paul lived alongside other humans and was still able to write those words! Righteous living comes with so much discipline, surely the Lord would let us stew for a little bit, right? WRONG! Though the cause of our anger may be completely justified, look at what the apostle says in verse 27, “and give no opportunity to the devil.” Anger exposes us to attack by the enemy.

I have lost track of the number of times I have gone to bed angry. Whether it’s an issue with my family, my job, friends, or my life,  I wonder how many times I have been led astray as a result. How many of these mind games with the enemy have I lost? 

Life Application - How can I apply this to my life today?

I was having a hard day today as I wrote this journal entry. And I found myself getting angry. But encouraged by the apostle Paul I chose to give no opportunity to the devil.

I took out my ukulele, I cleared my throat, and began to worship the Lord...privately. And you know what? My anger disappeared. The situation that needed to be dealt with remained, but the anger was gone, replaced by love and hope.

May I never stop turning to You no matter the circumstance.

Great are You Lord!

In the name of Jesus, amen.

-kenneth lee