Be Angry, But Do Not Sin

Be angry, yet do not sin; Consider in your heart upon your bed, And be silent. Selah (Psalms 4:4, RecVer)

This verse excatly described my experience recently. I was so much provoked to anger by one of my family members with whom I have had fellowship ample number of times. Still then, I felt the matter was not resolved despite my continual persuasion. I was taught an important lesson in self control. Whenever the matter of concern came up, I was disturbed and wanted to stop the ongoing matter. But I learned an important lesson, to leave the matter to the Lord and trust in Him fully. I was just enlightened to see how much I lacked in trusting the Lord. Definitely, what He did not plan will ever come to pass. I must simply put my whole trust in the Lord.

A few weeks ago, I was very much tempted to burst out in anger. I even schemed and planned for some actions to be taken in case of disobedience. In fact, when I lay down to sleep, the matter bothered me and I planned for some actions. But after much consideration and praying over the matter again and again, I realised that the Lord was in control and I need not take the place of God in taking any decision. Therefore, I did not bring the matter further and decided not to bring it again unless the Lord leads me so.

It was a tough lesson to learn. I thought I was patient and could control my temper but when I was provoked I found myself struggling. Gradually, the Lord has been training me and perfecting me. Thank God, that I did not burst out in anger but subdued my temper by turning to the Spirit indwelling my spirit. And now I have perfect peace and the matter did not bother me again. What a life lesson! Be angry, yet do not sin; Consider in your heart upon your bed, and be silent.

When the need arises to express the genuine feeling within, it may be expressed but with a reminder, "Be angry, but do not sin." This I learned from the Pslamist concerning God expressing His anger towards His rebellious and disobedient children. 

“Therefore Jehovah heard and was angry. And a fire was kindled against Jacob, And also anger went up against Israel; Because they did not believe in God, And they did not trust in His salvation.” (Psalms 78:21-22, RecVer)

“When the anger of God went up against them and slew some of their fattest ones and struck down the choice men of Israel.” (Psalms 78:31, RecVer)

This experience reminds me of the letter to the church in Ephesus. In anger, the devil can be easily given a ground. Which means, it is he who provokes and instigates. He will use whatever and whoever to accomplish his mission. We must turn it into mission impossible by not sinning, rather trusting in the Lord and leaving the matter to Him in prayer. Therefore, first consider carefully and be silent, and shut up the mouth of the devil. 

Be angry, yet do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your indignation, Neither give place to the devil. (Ephesians 4:26-27, RecVer)

Thank you, Lord for this precious and powerful life lesson!